How to treat kidney stones and urethral stones effectively

Treatment of kidney and urinary stones depends on the size, location, and severity of symptoms. Treatments include medication, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, surgical removal of the stones, and dietary and lifestyle changes. For small stones, drinking plenty of water, taking pain medications, and stone-moving drugs are usually effective; for larger stones, surgical intervention may be required.

1. Drug treatment

For kidney stones or urethral stones less than 5 mm in diameter, drug treatment is the first choice. Commonly used drugs include:

Pain relievers: Such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to relieve pain.

Stone-expelling drugs: such as the alpha-receptor blocker tamsulosin, which helps relax the ureters and promote the excretion of stones.

Diuretics: Increase urine volume and help flush stones.

2. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)

It is suitable for kidney stones with a diameter of less than 2 cm. The high-energy shock wave breaks the stones into small particles and excretes them with urine. Drink more water after the operation to promote the excretion of the broken stones.

3. Surgery to remove stones

For larger or complex stones, surgical intervention may be necessary:

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL): The kidney is accessed through a small incision in the back to directly remove the stones.

Ureteroscopic lithotomy (URS): A ureteroscope is inserted through the urethra to remove or break up stones.

Open surgery: Suitable for very rare and complicated cases.

4. Diet and lifestyle adjustments

Preventing stone recurrence is key:

Drink more water: Drink 2-3 liters of water every day to dilute urine and reduce stone formation.

Low-salt diet: reduces sodium intake and lowers urinary calcium excretion.

Control protein intake: avoid excessive animal protein to reduce the risk of uric acid stones.

Increase citric acid intake: such as lemon water, which inhibits stone formation.

The treatment of kidney stones and urethral stones requires choosing the appropriate method according to individual circumstances. Early detection and intervention can avoid complications. If severe back pain, hematuria or dysuria occurs, you should seek medical attention promptly. Through drug treatment, surgical intervention and lifestyle adjustments, most patients can effectively relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.