Health
What Causes Kidney Stone Pain in the Body? Find Out The Reasons!
Last Updated on March 16, 2023 by Nurse Vicky
What Causes Kidney Stone Pain in the Body? Find Out The Reasons!
If you are experiencing the symptoms of kidney stone pain, you should first understand the types of pain associated with them. There are several types of kidney stones, such as Calcium oxalate, backed-up urine, Chronic inflammation, and Shock wave lithotripsy. The first two types of pain caused by kidney stones are non-prescription and prescription. Non-prescription medications include ibuprofen and naproxen.
You should avoid NSAIDs if you have certain medical conditions.
Calcium oxalate
A kidney stone is a solid substance made up of calcium and oxalate. Usually, calcium forms stones when it combines with other substances in the urinary tract. The most common form of calcium stone is oxalate, which is found in certain types of foods, especially those rich in vitamin C. Some gastrointestinal disorders like diarrhea and ulcerative colitis also contribute to the formation of these stones.
For more information on urinary tract stones, consult your doctor.
While calcium is important for healthy bones and teeth, it can also lead to kidney stones if you are lacking in the mineral. If you are lacking calcium, you should take a daily calcium supplement. You should eat dairy products, not calcium supplements if you want to avoid the development of kidney stones.For best results, consult your doctor for proper treatment. You can also undergo a 24-hour urine test to determine oxalate levels.
The normal level of oxalate in urine is below 45 milligrams per day.
backed-up urine
The bladder stores urine, which can be about one and a half to two cups in size. The urethra is the final stop in the urinary tract, where urine is passed out of the body. Kidney stones may form for years before you notice pain or symptoms. Other symptoms of kidney stone pain include fever, chills, and a sudden, intense need to urinate.
You will probably also experience blood in your urine. Blood in the urine can be brown, pink, or red. These blood cells may be too small to see without a microscope, but it can be difficult to tell unless you take a urine sample and examine it for blood.
Your doctor can perform a urine test to determine whether there’s blood.
Chronic inflammation
Kidney stones are small, hard, and painful masses that form in the kidneys. Kidney stones cause pain and discomfort when they migrate through the urinary tract and ureter. They are often located in the groin or flank area. They may also move to the labia or testicles. The pain may be intermittent and can move in cycles lasting 10 to 30 minutes. If the stones do not move, they can lead to a back-up of urine and pain.
People suffering from kidney stones have no specific cause, but many factors can contribute to their formation. One of these factors is too much fructose in the diet.
High fructose intake is associated with an increased risk of kidney stone formation. Eating too much sugar and salt can also increase your risk. Avoid sugary foods or drinks that contain high fructose. Additionally, it is important to drink plenty of fluids, as these can reduce the concentration of stone-forming chemicals in the urine.
Shock wave lithotripsy
Shock wave lithotripsy for the treatment of kidney stones uses high-energy shock waves to break up the stones. Shock wave lithotripsy is a noninvasive procedure. A lithotripter generates shock waves, which travel into the body and break the stones into smaller pieces that can pass through the urinary tract. While the treatment does not completely eliminate the stone, it can help the patient avoid painful surgery. Shock wave lithotripsy is a noninvasive procedure that does not require incisions. You will need pain medication and be under general Anesthesia.
The procedure can be performed while you are awake or asleep.
You will lie on a procedure table and a water-filled cushion near the location of the stone. Your provider will then position you so that your body is properly aligned with the shockwaves. This procedure usually takes about an hour, and you should be able to go home the same day.
Non-prescription pain medication
You may have heard that non-prescription pain medication for kidney stones can be helpful. The truth is that non-prescription pain medications can cause more harm than good, and should not be used by people with weak kidney function.
These medications have the potential to damage kidney structures and tissue over time, and prolonged use of high doses can lead to an increased risk of kidney failure.
Furthermore, older people may be more sensitive to non-prescription pain medicines and should take lower doses than younger people. While you might not have experienced any symptoms at the onset of the condition, you should know that most of these stones do not pass on their own.
They can take weeks or even months to pass, so if you can’t bear the pain, non-prescription pain medication can help. In addition to pain relief, these medications are effective in relaxing muscles in the ureter, which can speed up the process of passing the stone.
Conclusion
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Health
Iowa Reports First Fatal Case of Ebola-like Lassa Fever Following Travel to West Africa
Iowa Reports First Fatal Case of Ebola-like Lassa Fever Following Travel to West Africa
Iowa health officials recently confirmed a fatal case of Lassa fever, an Ebola-like viral disease, in a person who had recently traveled to West Africa.
This incident has raised concerns about Lassa fever’s risks, transmission methods, and potential impacts on public health, especially as it is one of the few recorded cases of this virus in the United States.
This article will provide an in-depth overview of Lassa fever, its origins, symptoms, transmission risks, and the measures people can take to protect themselves and those around them.
Understanding Lassa Fever
What is Lassa Fever?
Lassa fever is a hemorrhagic virus similar in presentation to Ebola, transmitted primarily by contact with food or objects contaminated with infected rodent urine or feces.
This viral disease is common in parts of West Africa, where an estimated 100,000 to 300,000 cases are reported annually. Though many cases go unreported, the virus can cause severe illness and death in severe cases, particularly in patients with underlying health conditions.
Lassa Fever vs. Ebola: What’s the Difference?
Both Lassa fever and Ebola are viral hemorrhagic fevers, but they differ in their method of transmission, symptom severity, and geographical reach.
While Ebola spreads through human-to-human contact, Lassa fever is mainly rodent-borne and spread through direct or indirect exposure to rodents’ excretions.
Ebola outbreaks have historically shown higher fatality rates, but Lassa fever is often underreported, making mortality comparisons challenging.
Origins and Transmission of Lassa Fever
Where Does Lassa Fever Come From?
Lassa fever was first identified in 1969 in Nigeria and has since remained endemic in countries like Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, and Nigeria.
The Mastomys rat, or “multimammate rat,” serves as the natural reservoir for the virus and is a common species in West African regions, leading to frequent human contact and possible transmission.
How is Lassa Fever Transmitted?
Transmission occurs mainly through:
- Direct contact with infected rodents’ urine or droppings.
- Ingestion of contaminated food or household items.
- Human-to-human transmission in healthcare settings due to improper hygiene practices or exposure to bodily fluids of infected individuals.
The virus does not spread through casual contact, making general public spread less likely unless in close contact with contaminated surfaces or bodily fluids.
Symptoms of Lassa Fever
Early Symptoms
Early symptoms of Lassa fever can be mild, leading to undiagnosed cases or delayed medical attention.
Symptoms typically appear 1-3 weeks after exposure and may include:
- Fever and fatigue
- Sore throat and cough
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Abdominal and chest pain
Severe Symptoms and Complications
As the disease progresses, patients may develop more severe symptoms like:
- Hemorrhaging from gums, eyes, or nose
- Facial swelling and fluid in the lungs
- Seizures and confusion
- Organ failure
While some patients recover within weeks, severe complications can arise, especially in pregnant women and individuals with preexisting health conditions.
Diagnosis and Treatment
How is Lassa Fever Diagnosed?
Diagnosis requires specialized laboratory testing, as Lassa fever’s early symptoms resemble many other viral illnesses.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) can identify viral RNA and antibodies in blood samples, aiding in accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Antiviral medication, such as ribavirin, has shown promise in reducing symptoms when administered early. Supportive care, including rehydration, oxygen therapy, and blood transfusions, is crucial for severe cases.
However, there is no universally approved vaccine, making prevention through hygiene and rodent control vital.
Preventive Measures for Lassa Fever
Minimizing Contact with Rodents
Effective rodent control is essential in areas where Lassa fever is prevalent. Keeping food in rodent-proof containers, clearing homes of food scraps, and storing waste away from living spaces can minimize exposure to rodent excretions.
Maintaining Hygiene in Healthcare Settings
In hospitals, isolation protocols and rigorous hygiene practices, including the use of gloves, masks, and proper disposal of waste, are critical to prevent transmission from infected individuals to healthcare workers or family members.
Public Health Concerns and Global Impact
Why Should We Be Concerned About Lassa Fever?
While cases outside of West Africa are rare, the recent case in Iowa illustrates the potential for Lassa fever to appear in non-endemic regions.
Increased global travel poses risks, necessitating enhanced screening and awareness, especially for travelers returning from high-risk areas.
The Role of the CDC and WHO
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) play significant roles in monitoring and controlling Lassa fever outbreaks.
Both organizations work closely with local health agencies to provide guidelines, support diagnosis, and enhance preventive measures.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of life due to Lassa fever in Iowa serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of hemorrhagic fevers. Increased awareness, hygiene measures, and public health vigilance are essential to prevent future cases and protect communities.
As international travel grows, so does the need for education on preventing and responding to rare but deadly diseases like Lassa fever.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can Lassa fever be spread through the air?
No, Lassa fever is not airborne. It spreads through contact with rodent excretions or bodily fluids of an infected person.
2. Is there a vaccine available for Lassa fever?
Currently, there is no FDA-approved vaccine for Lassa fever, though researchers are actively working on developing one.
3. What regions are considered high-risk for Lassa fever?
High-risk regions include West African countries such as Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea, where the Mastomys rodent is prevalent.
4. What should travelers do to protect themselves from Lassa fever?
Travelers to endemic regions should avoid contact with rodents, keep food secured, and wash hands frequently. It’s wise to stay updated on health advisories from the CDC.
5. How can healthcare facilities prevent Lassa fever spread?
Hospitals can reduce risks by implementing stringent hygiene protocols, using personal protective equipment, and isolating infected patients to prevent cross-contamination.
References :
Health
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REFERENCE:
https://www.healthwellnessjournal.com/menstrual-allergy-guide
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