NJ Kidney Stone Specialists
Our experienced urologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney stones for patients across New Jersey. We offer personalized care using advanced techniques to relieve pain and prevent recurrence, helping support positive kidney health.
What is a Kidney Stone?
Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys. These stones develop when urine contains high levels of certain minerals, and can cause significant discomfort when passing through the urinary tract. Risk factors include a family or personal history of kidney stones, obesity, a high-sodium diet, certain digestive diseases, and a tendency to not drink enough water. They vary in size, shape, and type. Different types of kidney stones include:
- Calcium stones (calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate)
- Uric acid stones
- Struvite stones (related to infections)
- Cystine stones (caused by genetic disorders)
Although smaller kidney stones often pass on their own, proper diagnosis and treatment can help reduce symptoms and prevent infection. Large kidney stones can obstruct urine flow, leading to pain and potential complications if left untreated. Treatment depends on the stone’s size, location, and composition, with options ranging from medication to minimally invasive surgery.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
Kidney stone symptoms often begin suddenly and can vary depending on the stone’s size and location. The most common symptom is sharp, intense pain that may start in the back or side below the ribs and radiate toward the lower abdomen and groin. This pain, known as renal colic, can be severe and often occurs in waves.
Kidney Stone Symptoms Include:
- Sharp pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Blood in the urine
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Nausea and vomiting
How Kidney Stones are Diagnosed
Diagnosis of kidney stones typically begins with a review of your symptoms and medical history, along with a physical examination and imaging studies. A non-contrast CT scan is the most precise method to determine kidney stone size and location. Ultrasound may also be used to determine the size, shape, and location of a kidney stone. Your doctor will likely order blood and urine tests to evaluate kidney function and identify factors contributing to stone formation, such as high calcium or uric acid levels. Early diagnosis of kidney stones is essential to avoiding complications like infection or kidney damage.
Kidney Stone Treatment in NJ
Treatment for kidney stones depends on the stone’s size, location, and symptoms. Small stones may pass naturally with continued hydration and pain management, while larger or obstructive stones require active intervention. Options include extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) to break stones into smaller pieces, ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy to remove stones, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for complex or large stones. Your SUA specialist will determine the best treatment technique based on your unique situation, while also informing you on preventive strategies (like diet and lifestyle modifications) to reduce your risk of recurrence.
Kidney Stone Treatments Include:
- Pain management and additional medication to facilitate stone passage
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) to break stones into passable fragments
- Ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy for stone removal
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for larger or more complex stones
- Preventive counseling to reduce recurrence risk
Board-Certified Urologists in NJ
Our urologists are board-certified by the American Board of Urology, demonstrating that they have met rigorous training, education, and ethical standards to provide expert care. The expertise and compassion of our NJ urology specialists ensure that patients receive effective, high-quality treatments for all urologic conditions, including kidney stones, urologic cancer, and other urinary disorders. If you are experiencing symptoms of a kidney stone, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at our urology office in Somerville so we can help you determine the next steps towards relief.
Our Urology Center in Somerset County
Somerset Urological Associates is proud to serve Somerset County with advanced urologic care. Our center combines the expertise of board-certified urologists with state-of-the-art technology, resulting in treatment plans that are personalized to each patient. Conveniently located near the Robert Wood Johnson (RWJ) University Hospital Somerset, SUA provides comprehensive urology care in a warm, comfortable environment.
Somerset Urological Associates
72 West End Avenue
Somerville, NJ 08876
Get Directions
Phone: (908) 927-0300
Fax: (908) 707-4988
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