The Role of the Nephrologist in the Treatment and Prevention of Nephrolithiasis

Nephrolithiasis is a disease with a high risk of recurrence: 50% within five years and up to 80–90 % within 10 years after the first episode. Often, with this diagnosis, there is only symptomatic treatment with the aim of expelling the kidney stone and removing the pain. In such patients, however, initial stratification of the risk of recurrence based on the risk factors present is essential. Every patient with nephrolithiasis, whether it is a single episode or recurrent, should follow general measures to prevent kidney stones. Depending on the results of the kidney stone analysis and the risk of recurrence, it is necessary to carry out a specialised nephrological metabolic examination which is performed by a nephrologist in Slovakia, with subsequent personalised recommendations depending on the cause of recurrent nephrolithiasis. These include dietary and regimen measures, as well as pharmacological treatment. In the following article we summarize specific measures for individual types of nephrolithiasis, as well as basic preventive measures for the recurrence of kidney stones, with a focus on dietary risk and protective factors.