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Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment You Shouldn’t Ignore

Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment You Shouldn’t Ignore

by | May 22, 2025 | Blog

Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment You Shouldn’t Ignore
Kidney stones are one of the most common and painful urinary tract disorders affecting millions of people globally. If you’ve ever had one, you know the agony they can cause. These hard, pebble-like deposits form in the kidneys and can range from a grain of sand to the size of a golf ball.

In this blog post, we’ll cover the causes, symptoms, prevention tips, and treatment options for kidney stones—and how expert care at Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic can help you manage and prevent them.

What Are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are solid deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They develop when urine becomes concentrated, allowing these substances to crystallize and stick together.

There are different types of kidney stones:

Calcium oxalate stones – Most common

Uric acid stones

Struvite stones – Often linked to infections

Cystine stones – Rare, often genetic

What Causes Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones can form due to various factors, including:

Dehydration – Not drinking enough water

Diet – High salt, sugar, or protein intake

Family history – Genetics play a role

Obesity – Increases stone-forming risk

Medical conditions – Hyperparathyroidism, urinary tract infections, gout

Certain medications or supplements – Calcium-based antacids, vitamin D, etc.

Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones
You may not notice small kidney stones, but larger ones can cause intense symptoms, including:

Severe pain in the side, back, or lower abdomen

Pain during urination

Pink, red, or brown urine (blood in urine)

Nausea and vomiting

Frequent urge to urinate

Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

Fever and chills (if infection is present)

Pain from kidney stones can be so intense that it’s often compared to childbirth. Don’t ignore these signs—early detection can prevent complications.

How Are Kidney Stones Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically includes:

Urine analysis

Blood tests

Imaging tests (Ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray)

Stone analysis (if passed naturally or removed)

Treatment Options for Kidney Stones
Treatment depends on the size, type, and location of the stone:

1. Small Stones
Often pass naturally with:

Increased fluid intake

Pain relievers

Alpha-blockers (to relax ureters)

2. Large or Painful Stones
May require:

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) – Breaks stones with sound waves

Ureteroscopy – Removes stones via a thin scope

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy – Surgical removal for large stones

Open surgery – Rare, only for very large or complex stones

Can Kidney Stones Be Prevented?
Yes, in many cases. Here are key prevention tips:

Drink plenty of water (2.5–3 liters/day)

Limit salt and animal protein intake

Eat more fruits and vegetables

Reduce oxalate-rich foods (spinach, nuts, chocolate)

Monitor calcium intake (don’t over-supplement)

Stay physically active

Kidney Stone Expertise at Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic, Mumbai
At Prabhakar Bhurke Nephrology, Urology & Gynaecology Fertility Clinic, our team of urology and nephrology specialists provides expert care for kidney stones.

Dr. Sandip Prabhakar Bhurke (Kidney Specialist) and Dr. Hitesh Jain (Urologist and Uro Surgeon) offer:

Complete diagnostic evaluations

Customized treatment plans

Advanced stone removal techniques

Home and video consultations

State-of-the-art facilities in Andheri West (Lokhandwala) and Borivali West, Mumbai

Don’t Let Kidney Stones Slow You Down
Kidney stones are painful—but preventable and treatable. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have a history of kidney stones, consult with our experts today for a personalized treatment plan.

Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment You Shouldn’t Ignore

Chronic Kidney Disease: Symptoms, Stages, Causes & Treatment You Should Know

by | May 22, 2025 | Blog

Chronic Kidney Disease: Symptoms, Stages, Causes & Treatment You Should Know
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition that affects the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. It’s a silent threat—many people don’t realize they have it until significant kidney damage has occurred. CKD affects millions worldwide and, if left untreated, can lead to kidney failure or the need for dialysis or transplant.

This blog post will help you understand the key symptoms, causes, stages, and treatments of chronic kidney disease so you can take proactive steps toward better kidney health.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
CKD is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their function over time. Healthy kidneys filter waste, balance electrolytes, regulate blood pressure, and produce hormones. In CKD, this ability declines, causing a buildup of waste and fluid in the body.

CKD typically develops slowly over months or years and is measured in five stages, from mild (Stage 1) to complete kidney failure (Stage 5).

Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease
In early stages, CKD often presents no noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, the following signs may appear:

Fatigue and weakness

Swelling in ankles, feet, or hands (edema)

Changes in urination (foamy, dark, frequent, or reduced)

High blood pressure

Shortness of breath

Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite

Itchy or dry skin

Muscle cramps

Trouble concentrating

Metallic taste in mouth or bad breath

If you experience these symptoms regularly, consult a nephrologist immediately.

Causes and Risk Factors of CKD
Several conditions can cause or increase the risk of chronic kidney disease:

Diabetes (Type 1 & 2) – Leading cause of CKD

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) – Second most common cause

Glomerulonephritis – Inflammation of kidney filtering units

Polycystic Kidney Disease – Inherited condition with cysts in kidneys

Recurring urinary tract infections or obstructions

Autoimmune diseases like lupus

Long-term use of painkillers (NSAIDs) or certain antibiotics

Other risk factors include age over 60, smoking, obesity, and a family history of kidney disease.

Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease
CKD is divided into five stages based on the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR), a measure of kidney function:

Stage GFR (ml/min) Description
Stage 1 90+ Normal kidney function, with damage
Stage 2 60–89 Mild decline in function
Stage 3 30–59 Moderate loss of function
Stage 4 15–29 Severe decline in kidney function
Stage 5 <15 Kidney failure (end-stage disease) How is CKD Diagnosed? Early diagnosis is crucial. Common diagnostic tools include: Blood tests (Creatinine, GFR) Urine tests (Protein, blood presence) Imaging (Ultrasound, CT scan) Kidney biopsy (in select cases) Treatment Options for Chronic Kidney Disease While CKD is not always curable, its progression can often be slowed with proper treatment: 1. Lifestyle Changes Low-sodium, kidney-friendly diet Blood sugar and pressure control Regular physical activity Quit smoking and alcohol Weight management 2. Medications ACE inhibitors or ARBs for blood pressure Medications to manage diabetes Phosphate binders and supplements 3. Dialysis or Kidney Transplant In Stage 5 CKD, when kidney function falls below 15%, patients may require: Hemodialysis or Peritoneal Dialysis Kidney transplant, if eligible Expert CKD Care at Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic At Prabhakar Bhurke Nephrology, Urology, and Gynaecology Fertility Clinic, we specialize in early detection, personalized treatment, and ongoing care for chronic kidney disease. Led by Dr. Sandip Prabhakar Bhurke, a senior Kidney (Renal) Nephrologist, our clinic offers: Complete kidney function evaluations Stage-based treatment planning Dialysis and transplant consultation Home visits and 24/7 video consultations Locations in Andheri West (Lokhandwala) and Borivali West, Mumbai Take Control of Your Kidney Health Today Chronic kidney disease doesn’t have to be a life sentence. With early diagnosis and the right care, you can manage CKD and live a healthy, fulfilling life. 📞 Book your consultation with our expert nephrology team today and take the first step toward better kidney health.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment You Shouldn’t Ignore

Kidney Pain: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor

by | May 22, 2025 | Blog

Kidney Pain: Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor
Kidney pain is not just back pain—it’s a specific type of discomfort that can be a sign of serious underlying health issues. Knowing how to identify kidney pain and understanding what causes it can help you act quickly and protect your kidney health.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what kidney pain feels like, its possible causes, associated symptoms, and when to seek professional help.

What Is Kidney Pain?
Your kidneys are bean-shaped organs located on either side of your spine, just below the rib cage. Kidney pain usually occurs in the flank area, which is the side of your back, just below the ribs. It can be felt on one or both sides and may radiate to the lower abdomen or groin.

Kidney pain is different from general back pain—it often indicates a problem within the urinary system and should not be ignored.

Common Causes of Kidney Pain
1. Kidney Stones
One of the most common causes, kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys. They can cause intense, sharp pain when they move or block the urinary tract.

Symptoms may include:

Severe pain on one side of the back

Nausea and vomiting

Blood in urine

Painful urination

2. Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis)
A kidney infection is usually caused by bacteria traveling from the bladder. It can cause serious complications if left untreated.

Symptoms may include:

Dull, aching pain on one or both sides

Fever and chills

Frequent, painful urination

Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

3. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
An inherited disorder where fluid-filled cysts develop in the kidneys, causing pain and kidney dysfunction over time.

Symptoms may include:

Persistent pain or heaviness in the back or sides

High blood pressure

Blood in the urine

Enlarged abdomen

4. Urinary Tract Obstruction
Blockage in the urinary system—such as from a tumor, enlarged prostate, or scar tissue—can lead to pressure buildup and kidney pain.

5. Kidney Injury or Trauma
A direct blow or accident affecting the kidneys can result in pain, bruising, or internal bleeding.

How to Differentiate Kidney Pain from Back Pain
Feature Kidney Pain Muscular Back Pain
Location Deep in the flank, side, or lower abdomen Lower back or spine area
Type of Pain Dull, aching, or sharp; often constant Aching, throbbing, worsens with movement
Additional Symptoms Fever, nausea, urinary changes Stiffness, soreness, muscle spasms

When to See a Doctor
You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Severe or sharp flank pain

Fever with chills

Nausea and vomiting

Blood in urine

Difficulty urinating

Pain that radiates to the groin

Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications such as kidney failure, sepsis, or permanent damage.

Expert Kidney Care at Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic
At Prabhakar Bhurke Nephrology, Urology, and Gynaecology Fertility Clinic, our team of specialists provides advanced diagnostics and treatment for all types of kidney-related conditions.

Led by Dr. Sandip Prabhakar Bhurke, an expert Kidney (Renal) Nephrologist, we offer:

Diagnosis and management of kidney infections, stones, and chronic disease

Ultrasound and imaging support

Kidney function tests

Pain management and personalized treatment plans

Home and video consultations

Our centers in Andheri West (Lokhandwala) and Borivali West, Mumbai, are equipped with cutting-edge technology and compassionate professionals ready to help.

Don’t Ignore Kidney Pain—Get Checked Today
If you’re experiencing kidney pain, especially along with other symptoms, don’t delay. Early diagnosis and expert care can save your kidneys—and your overall health.

Book an appointment with our nephrology experts now and take the first step toward relief and recovery.

Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment You Shouldn’t Ignore

Kidney Disease Symptoms: 10 Warning Signs Your Kidneys May Be in Trouble

by | May 22, 2025 | Blog

Kidney Disease Symptoms: 10 Warning Signs Your Kidneys May Be in Trouble
Your kidneys are silent workers, filtering around 50 gallons of blood every day and helping your body maintain balance. But when kidney function begins to decline, the symptoms may be subtle—or even go unnoticed—until serious damage has occurred. Understanding the early and late-stage kidney disease symptoms can help you take action before it’s too late.

In this blog, we’ll explain what kidney disease is, outline the most common symptoms, and share what you should do if you suspect your kidneys aren’t functioning as they should.

What is Kidney Disease?
Kidney disease refers to any condition that impairs kidney function over time. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) develops gradually and can lead to permanent kidney failure (end-stage renal disease) if left untreated. It’s often linked to diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, or inherited disorders.

10 Most Common Kidney Disease Symptoms
1. Fatigue and Weakness
As kidney function declines, waste builds up in the blood, leading to fatigue, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. You may also develop anemia, which contributes to persistent tiredness.

2. Swelling (Edema)
One of the clearest signs of kidney disease is swelling in the ankles, feet, legs, hands, or face due to fluid retention caused by poor kidney filtration.

3. Changes in Urination
More or less frequent urination

Foamy or bubbly urine

Dark-colored or bloody urine

Pain or burning sensation while urinating

These changes signal that your kidneys may be struggling to eliminate waste.

4. Persistent Itching
The buildup of toxins and imbalances in minerals like phosphorus can cause intense itching, especially in the arms, legs, and back.

5. Shortness of Breath
Excess fluid in the lungs or anemia caused by kidney disease can make breathing difficult, even during light activity or rest.

6. Nausea and Vomiting
Accumulation of waste in the bloodstream (uremia) can lead to nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite—common signs of advanced kidney disease.

7. Puffy Eyes
Constant puffiness around the eyes may indicate that your kidneys are leaking protein into your urine—a common early sign of damage.

8. Muscle Cramps
Impaired kidney function can lead to imbalances in calcium and phosphorus, which may cause painful muscle cramps.

9. Metallic Taste and Bad Breath
A metallic taste in the mouth and ammonia-like breath are signs of toxin buildup that result from poor kidney filtration.

10. High Blood Pressure
Damaged kidneys struggle to regulate blood pressure, and in turn, high blood pressure can further harm your kidneys.

When to See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms consistently, it’s important to consult a nephrologist immediately. Early detection can slow disease progression and prevent complications.

Diagnosing Kidney Disease
Doctors typically run the following tests to assess kidney health:

Blood tests (to check creatinine and estimate GFR)

Urine tests (to detect protein or blood)

Imaging scans (ultrasound or CT)

Kidney biopsy (in specific cases)

Preventing and Managing Kidney Disease
While some causes are unavoidable, you can reduce your risk by:

Controlling blood pressure and blood sugar

Staying hydrated

Eating a balanced, low-sodium diet

Avoiding excessive use of NSAIDs or painkillers

Getting regular kidney function tests, especially if you have diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney problems

Expert Kidney Care at Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic
At Prabhakar Bhurke Nephrology, Urology, and Gynaecology Fertility Clinic, we specialize in early detection and advanced treatment of kidney disease. Dr. Sandip Prabhakar Bhurke, a trusted Kidney (Renal) Nephrologist Specialist, offers:

Personalized treatment plans

Regular monitoring and diagnostics

Diet and lifestyle counseling

Dialysis and transplant evaluation

Clinic, home, and video consultations

Our clinics in Andheri West (Lokhandwala) and Borivali West, Mumbai, are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and compassionate professionals dedicated to your kidney health.

Don’t Wait for Symptoms to Get Worse—Take Control of Your Kidney Health Today
If you’re noticing signs of kidney disease, book a consultation now. The earlier we act, the better your chances of managing or even reversing the damage.

Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment You Shouldn’t Ignore

Kidney Failure Symptoms: Early Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

by | May 22, 2025 | Blog

Kidney Failure Symptoms: Early Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Your kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste, balancing fluids, regulating blood pressure, and keeping your body healthy. When they stop functioning properly, dangerous toxins build up in your body—a condition known as kidney failure or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Recognizing the symptoms of kidney failure early can mean the difference between manageable treatment and life-threatening complications.

In this article, we’ll break down the most common signs and symptoms of kidney failure, what causes them, and when to seek medical help.

What is Kidney Failure?
Kidney failure occurs when your kidneys lose their ability to effectively filter blood and remove waste products and excess fluids from the body. It can happen suddenly (acute kidney failure) or gradually (chronic kidney failure). In both cases, early detection is key.

Top Kidney Failure Symptoms You Should Watch For
1. Fatigue and Weakness
When the kidneys can’t filter waste effectively, toxins build up in the blood. This can cause persistent tiredness, reduced concentration, and overall weakness.

2. Swelling (Edema)
Excess fluid retained in the body due to poor kidney function can cause swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, face, or even hands.

3. Changes in Urination
Noticeable differences in urination are a major warning sign:

Urinating more or less than usual

Dark-colored, cloudy, or foamy urine

Blood in the urine

Frequent nighttime urination

Pain or difficulty while urinating

4. Shortness of Breath
As fluid builds up in the lungs, it may become harder to breathe—especially during physical activity or while lying down.

5. Nausea and Vomiting
Kidney failure can lead to a buildup of waste products in the bloodstream (uremia), causing gastrointestinal distress like nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

6. Persistent Itching
Impaired kidney function leads to a buildup of toxins that can cause itching all over the body, especially on the back, arms, and legs.

7. High Blood Pressure
Damaged kidneys struggle to regulate blood pressure, often leading to uncontrolled hypertension, which in turn further worsens kidney function.

8. Metallic Taste in Mouth and Bad Breath
Toxin buildup can cause an unpleasant metallic taste in the mouth and ammonia-like breath.

9. Muscle Cramps
Imbalance in electrolytes like calcium, potassium, and sodium can trigger painful muscle cramps, especially in the legs.

10. Trouble Sleeping
Toxin buildup and discomfort may lead to restless sleep, insomnia, or sleep apnea.

When to See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing two or more of the above symptoms consistently, it’s important to consult a nephrologist immediately. Kidney failure can progress quickly without clear warning signs, especially in chronic cases.

What Causes Kidney Failure?
Diabetes (Type 1 or 2)

High blood pressure

Polycystic kidney disease

Glomerulonephritis

Chronic urinary tract infections

Prolonged use of certain medications (NSAIDs, antibiotics)

Autoimmune diseases like lupus

How is Kidney Failure Diagnosed?
Doctors use several tests to confirm kidney failure:

Blood tests: To measure creatinine and urea levels

Urine tests: To check for protein, blood, or other abnormalities

GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate): Measures how well your kidneys are filtering

Ultrasound or CT scan: To assess kidney size and structure

Expert Kidney Care at Prabhakar Bhurke Clinic
At Prabhakar Bhurke Nephrology, Urology, and Gynaecology Fertility Clinic, we offer early detection, advanced diagnostics, and expert treatment for kidney conditions, including chronic kidney disease and kidney failure.

Led by Dr. Sandip Prabhakar Bhurke, a trusted Kidney (Renal) Nephrologist Specialist, our clinic is equipped to provide:

Comprehensive kidney evaluations

Lifestyle and medication management

Dialysis preparation and transplant consultation

Home visits and video consultations

24-hour appointment-based availability

Our clinics in Lokhandwala (Andheri West) and Borivali West provide compassionate, personalized care for patients of all ages.

Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs—Protect Your Kidneys Today
If you or a loved one are experiencing any kidney failure symptoms, schedule a consultation immediately. Early treatment can prevent permanent damage and restore your quality of life.