Kidney Stones vs UTI Quiz

Kidney Stones: This condition involves hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys, causing severe pain as they pass through the urinary tract. The stones can vary in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball, with symptoms including severe back pain, nausea, and painful urination. They are often caused by dehydration, dietary factors, obesity, and certain medical conditions that affect mineral metabolism.

UTI: A urinary tract infection (UTI) refers to an infection in any part of the urinary system, most commonly affecting the bladder and urethra. The infection typically occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply in the bladder, causing symptoms such as burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and cloudy urine. Women are at higher risk due to their shorter urethra, and recurrent infections are common.

Kidney Stones Specific Symptoms

• Severe, sharp pain in back/side
• Pain comes in waves
• Blood in urine
• Nausea/vomiting
• Pain changes with position

UTI Specific Symptoms

• Burning sensation when urinating
• Persistent urge to urinate
• Strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pressure
• Low-grade fever

Kidney Stones Treatment Approaches

Treatment depends on stone size and severity, ranging from pain management and hydration for small stones that may pass naturally, to medical procedures like shock wave lithotripsy or surgery for larger stones. Medications can help manage pain and sometimes help stones pass more easily. Prevention includes dietary changes and increased fluid intake.

UTI Treatment Approaches

Treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics specific to the type of bacteria causing the infection, along with pain relievers for discomfort. Increased fluid intake helps flush out bacteria, and preventive measures include proper hygiene and urinating after sexual activity. For recurrent UTIs, long-term preventive antibiotics might be prescribed.