Kidney Stones Articles A-Z
This section of the eMedTV library discusses possible causes of kidney stones and risk factors for the condition. While not actual causes, age, certain medications, or family history may play a role in the development of kidney stones.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy
This eMedTV article describes extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy in detail. Also called ESWL, this is the procedure most often used for the treatment of kidney stones, which uses shock waves to them break up.
Kidney stones develop when certain materials clump together instead of being eliminated in urine. As this eMedTV page explains, the condition can be due to diet or certain medical conditions. Common symptoms and treatment options are also discussed.