Kidney stones are a common problem in Ludhiana. Learn how they form, recognise the warning signs, adopt simple lifestyle changes and discover the modern treatment options available at Shah Hospital.
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form inside the kidneys when urine contains more crystal‑forming substances—such as calcium, oxalate or uric acid—than the fluid can dilute.
Why are kidney stones common in Ludhiana?
Ludhiana’s climate, dietary habits and water quality contribute to a higher risk:
- Hot summers lead to reduced fluid intake and concentrated urine.
- Traditional Punjabi diet often includes high‑protein foods, dairy and oxalate‑rich items like spinach and nuts.
- Hard water with elevated calcium levels can add to stone formation.
Symptoms to watch for
Small stones may pass unnoticed, but larger ones cause:
- Sharp pain in the back or side, often radiating to the groin.
- Blood in the urine (pink or cola‑coloured).
- Frequent urge to urinate, sometimes with burning.
- Nausea or vomiting during painful episodes.
When to seek medical help
If you experience severe pain, fever, inability to pass urine or persistent blood in the urine, visit a urology department promptly. Early evaluation prevents complications such as infection or kidney damage.
How Shah Hospital treats kidney stones
Shah Hospital’s urology team offers a range of evidence‑based options:
- Conservative management: Increased fluid intake, pain relief and medication to help small stones pass naturally.
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): Non‑invasive shock waves break stones into tiny fragments that are expelled in urine.
- Ureteroscopic laser lithotripsy: A thin scope is passed through the urethra to the stone, which is then fragmented with a laser.
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL): For very large stones, a small incision in the back allows direct removal.
All procedures are performed by experienced urologists using modern equipment, ensuring safety and quick recovery.
Preventive measures
Adopting simple habits can dramatically lower the risk of recurrence:
- Drink at least 2–3 litres of water daily; aim for clear or light‑yellow urine.
- Limit intake of salty, processed foods and excessive animal protein.
- Include citrus fruits (lemon, orange) which increase citrate, a natural stone inhibitor.
- Moderate consumption of oxalate‑rich foods; pair them with calcium‑rich foods to reduce absorption.
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active.
Regular follow‑up with Shah Hospital’s urology department helps monitor kidney health and tailor prevention strategies to your individual risk.