Kidney Stone Formation (Nephrolithiasis):Nephrolithiasis refers to the formation of stones within the kidney or further down the urinary tract. These kidney stones are a frequent source of discomfort and abdominal, flank, or groin pain. At some point, 1 in 10 individuals will experience kidney stones. The formation of these stones is often linked to the increased secretion of substances like calcium, oxalate, or cystine that contribute to their development.The pain associated with kidney stones typically begins suddenly and is extremely intense and intermittent. It does not get better with changes in position and can radiate from the back to the flank and into the groin. Nausea and vomiting are commonly experienced alongside the pain.Treatment primarily focuses on pain management, ensuring adequate hydration, and using antibiotics if there is a urinary infection. Most kidney stones are expelled naturally within 48 hours. However, if a stone that causes symptoms does not pass on its own, a urologist might need to perform a procedure.The term "nephrolithiasis" comes from the Greek words "nephros" meaning kidney and "lithos" meaning stone, thus translating to kidney stone. These stones are also known as renal calculi, with "calculus" (plural: calculi) being derived from the Latin term for pebble.
