Kidney Stones Vs. Gallstones

A kidney stone is created by crystals that get separated from urine, and gallstones are made mostly of hardened cholesterol. Both kidney stones and gallstones can be very painful.

Causes

• While doctors do not always know what causes kidney stones, they believe that certain foods promote the formation of stones. Gallstones form when the gallbladder does not empty as often as it should or when bile has too much cholesterol.

Symptoms

• According to the National Institutes of Health, people who have kidney stones may feel a sharp pain in the back and side near the kidney, or experience nausea and vomiting. A person with gallstones may feel pain in the right upper abdomen, back pain, or nausea and vomiting.

Testing

• Doctors can test for kidney stones by taking an x-ray or an ultrasound. An ultrasound or CT scan can be used to diagnose gallstones.

Treatment

• Both kidney stones and gallstones can be treated with medication or surgery. Since the body can live without the gallbladder, it may be removed if a patient has frequent gallbladder attacks.

Prevention

• Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help prevent kidney stones. Two ways you can help prevent gallstones are by avoiding fatty foods and maintaining a healthy weight.