What is a kidney stone, and how is it treated?
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A kidney stone is a hard deposit of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. Treatment depends on the size and type of stone and may include:
- Conservative management: Drinking plenty of fluids to help pass the stone.
- Medications: To manage pain or help dissolve certain types of stones.
- Non-invasive treatments: Such as shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) to break up the stone.
- Surgical procedures: If stones are large or causing significant obstruction, options like ureteroscopy, percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), or open surgery may be required.