Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain, especially when they move into the urinary tract. Symptoms include sharp pain in the back or side, blood in the urine, and difficulty urinating. Small stones may pass on their own with increased fluid intake and pain management. Larger stones may require medical intervention such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) to break them up, ureteroscopy to remove or fragment them, or, in rare cases, surgery. Preventive measures include staying well-hydrated and making dietary adjustments to reduce stone formation.
Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain, especially when they move into the urinary tract. Symptoms include sharp pain in the back or side, blood in the urine, and difficulty urinating. Small stones may pass on their own with increased fluid intake and pain management. Larger stones may require medical intervention such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) to break them up, ureteroscopy to remove or fragment them, or, in rare cases, surgery. Preventive measures include staying well-hydrated and making dietary adjustments to reduce stone formation.
Treatment
1. Conservative Management:
Hydration: Increasing fluid intake helps dilute urine, facilitating the passage of small stones.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate discomfort during stone passage.
Medical Therapy: Alpha blockers, such as tamsulosin, may be prescribed to relax ureter muscles, aiding in the expulsion of stones.
2. Minimally Invasive Procedures:
Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL): This non-invasive technique uses shock waves to break stones into smaller fragments that can be passed naturally. It's typically used for stones up to 2 centimeters in size.
Ureteroscopy: A thin scope is inserted through the urethra and bladder into the ureter to locate and remove or fragment stones using laser energy. This method is effective for stones located in the ureter or kidney.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): Recommended for larger or more complex stones, PCNL involves making a small incision in the back to access the kidney and remove or break up stones.
3. Surgical Intervention:
Open Surgery: Rarely performed today, open surgery may be necessary for exceptionally large stones or when other methods are ineffective.
4. Preventive Measures:
Dietary Modifications: Reducing sodium intake, limiting foods high in oxalates, and moderating animal protein consumption can help prevent stone formation.
Hydration: Maintaining adequate fluid intake is crucial to prevent recurrence.