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Kidney stones are common and are on the rise. About 11 percent of men and 6 percent of women have kidney stones at least once during their lifetime. Diet, excess body weight, some medical conditions, and certain supplements and medications are among the many causes of kidney stones.
According to the specialists of the best urology hospital in Mysore individuals who are affected by kidney stones often experience intense abdominal pain, specifically in the area around the waist. The pain is similar to colicky pain and can be accompanied by vomiting, nausea, and the presence of blood in the urine (hematuria). If the stone moves and obstructs the ureter, it can result in sudden swelling of the kidney and acute pain, which requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of Kidney Stone
Kidney stones commonly present with several symptoms such as abdominal pain, particularly in the waist area, burning sensation while urinating, hematuria, and fever with chills in the presence of urinary tract infection. Patients may exhibit severe tenderness around the waist or in the pubic area, where the bladder is located. Also, sometimes patients may experience dehydration due to vomiting and nausea.
Diagnosis to Detect Kidney Stones
Performing a basic abdominal ultrasound can help identify the presence of a kidney or bladder stone. However, if the stone is not visible, a CT scan of the abdomen may be recommended to determine the stone's size, location, and degree of obstruction.
Hydronephrosis, or swelling of the kidney due to obstruction, is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. To manage this condition, patients are typically given intravenous fluids and pain relief medication. Further treatment options depend on factors such as stone size and location, as well as any associated comorbidities like diabetes, a previous history of kidney stones or urinary tract infections, and advanced age, which may increase the risk of urinary infections.
Treatment and Procedures
To assess the obstruction caused by kidney stones, urologists in Mysore usually perform a ureteroscopy. This procedure involves using an endoscope to visualise the stone on a monitor. In this procedure, a laser fiber is passed through the endoscope, which effectively breaks the stone into tiny pieces. One of the significant advantages of using a laser for this purpose is that it can break stones regardless of their size and can reach all parts of the kidney, including the calyx, pelvis, and ureter. By using a flexible scope, the laser fiber can be passed through the urinary tract to break the stone into fine dust and small pieces. These pieces can then be removed using a basket, and the dust is eliminated through urine. This method is highly efficient and safe for patients of all types, including those who are diabetic, obese, pregnant, or children to remove kidney stones.
In cases where the stone is more significant, we can break the stone into dust and place a stent in the kidney. The advantage of using a stent in combination with this procedure is that it assists in clearing the stones created in the kidney, and the stent can be removed as an outpatient procedure a few weeks later.
In summary, during the summer months, kidney stones are a common occurrence. However, with the use of a laser and ureteroscopy, treatment can be completed in a single day. Patients can resume their regular activities the day after the procedure because no incision is made, resulting in a quick recovery time. The use of a laser to break up kidney stones into fine dust and powder leads to swift clearance of the stones, and the success rate of this procedure is nearly 98%.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Kidney Stones
The possibility of kidney stone recurrence is very common; therefore, it is crucial to take the following measures:
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Adequate intake of fluid, at least three to four litres of fluids in the form of water.
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Maintain the significant diet suggested by the expert (Dietician) based on the type of stone.
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Moderate intake of protein if have uric stones.
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Taking stone inhibitors as prescribed by Urologist.
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