Phleboliths are small stones or pieces of calcium carbonate (calcium phosphate) that form in the kidneys from urine. They are produced when there is too much acidity in the body’s blood. These stones may cause symptoms such as pain, burning, itching, swelling, or weight loss. There is no cure for phleboliths but they can usually be treated with medication and lifestyle changes.
What Is A Calcified Uterus?
A calcified uterus is a term used to describe any part of the female reproductive system that has become hardened due to scarring caused by pregnancy or other complications during pregnancy. The most common location for calcification is around the cervix, which occurs because of scar tissue formation from previous pregnancies. Other locations include the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, ureters (the tube that carries urine out of your kidney), and rectum. Some women develop calcified uteri even after childbirth.
How Do Phleboliths Affect Women With Ovarian Cancer?
Women with ovarian cancer have a higher risk of developing pelvic tumors due to their high rate of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Hormone therapy increases the amount of estrogen in the body. When this happens, it makes the bones less flexible and weakens them. If these weakened bones break down, they can easily become calcified.
What Are The Various Types Of Calcification?
Calcification occurs when calcium and other minerals build up in the body’s soft tissue. This results in hard, brittle deposits of calcium in the body’s connective tissues. There are different types of calcification:
Osteitis pubis also known as swimmer’s bone is an inflammatory condition that causes the head (also known as the “os pubis”) of the thighbone to thicken and become hard.
Osteomalacia or “vitamin D deficiency” is a softening and weakening of bone. The condition occurs when the body does not receive enough Vitamin D, which causes the bones to become brittle and break easily.
Osteoporosis occurs when calcium levels in the bones drop due to menopause, hormonal changes, diet, lifestyle, or other factors. Without proper nutrition and supplementation, the bones begin to lose density and strength.
Renal osteodystrophy causes the bones to harden and become brittle. The condition is most common in people who have had kidney stones before or currently have a family history of kidney stones. The condition can also cause the bones to become weak.
Phleboliths are small stones or pieces of calcium carbonate that form in the kidneys from urine. They are usually harmless but they can irritate the tissue around them, depending on where they are located.
What Are The Symptoms Of Calcified Tissues?
The symptoms of calcification depend on what area of the body is being affected by the condition. However, some of the common symptoms include:
Severe pain in the lower back or pelvis that worsens around the time of menstruation.
Pain during sexual activity that does not get better with medication.
Severe menstrual cramps.
Pain or bleeding during bowel movements.
Pain in the back or pelvis that wakes you from sleep.
Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or lifting objects due to severe pain.
How Does A Doctor Diagnose Calcified Tissues?
Calcification can be diagnosed by a combination of factors, including your medical history, a physical examination, and diagnostic testing. Your doctor will ask you questions about your medical history and perform a physical examination. A thorough medical history will help your doctor identify any factors that might increase your risk of having calcific tissue.
If the doctor believes that you could have calcific tissue, he or she may order diagnostic tests to determine what exactly is causing your pain. These tests include:
X-rays: X-rays can reveal whether or not there are any calcifications present in your body. The X-ray technician takes images of your body to create a photographic record of any abnormalities or issues present in your body’s bones.
CT scan (Computed Tomography): CT scans use x-rays and computer technology to create detailed 3D images of the internal structure of bones.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI’s use strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the internal structure of the body.
Ultrasound: A diagnostic imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to create visual images of internal tissues, organs, and bones.
Blood tests: A blood test can reveal whether or not you have a vitamin D deficiency or another medical condition that increases your risk for developing calcification.
How Is Calcified Tissue Treated?
The treatment for calcific tissue depends on what is causing it. For example, if you have a vitamin D deficiency, your doctor may recommend taking supplements or eating foods rich in vitamin D. If you have a condition that increases your risk of developing calcific tissue, such as kidney disease or hyperparathyroidism, you may need to take medication or have surgery to treat that condition.
If you have calcific tissue due to kidney stones or a urinary tract infection, your doctor may recommend pain medication and hydration. However, if the cause is due to another condition such as kidney disease or hyperparathyroidism, you may need to take medication or undergo surgery to treat that condition.
Your doctor will determine what the best course of action is to treat your condition.
What Is The Long-Term Outlook Of Calcified Tissue?
The outlook for individuals with calcific tissue, also known as arteriosclerosis, is good as long as you receive prompt treatment for the underlying condition causing it.
Arteriosclerosis, a condition that is present at birth, leads to the hardening of the arteries. While this condition is present at birth, it may only become noticeable after the age of 40 or 50 due to calcification buildup. Calcification can be treated with medication or surgery depending on what is causing it.
Arteriosclerosis leads to a condition known as atherosclerosis, hardening of the arteries, which makes the body less able to supply oxygen and other nutrients to the organs and tissues. Calcification can put extra stress on the heart and other major organs and should be treated as soon as possible to prevent further issues or complications.
Calcified tissue in the brain is a serious condition that can lead to memory lapses, confusion, and difficulty speaking. If you or an aging loved one displays these symptoms, it’s important to see a physician immediately. Calcification of the brain can be treated with medication or surgery depending on what is causing it.
Arteriosclerosis can lead to a number of life-threatening conditions that demand immediate medical attention.
Seek prompt medical attention if you or a loved one experiences shortness of breath, vision loss, pain or discomfort in the chest, upper back, or arms, and difficulty speaking.
If you would like more information on calcific tissue, please contact us at NeuroSearch Neurology & Sleep Medicine Center by calling 888-987-6911.
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