What are the methods of treating kidney stones?

Treatments for kidney stones include medication, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, surgery, and supplementary treatments through diet and lifestyle changes. The most appropriate treatment is selected based on the size, location, and symptoms of the stones. In the early stages, based on symptom presentation and condition, invasive treatment may not be required for smaller, asymptomatic stones.

Medical treatment is usually suitable for smaller stones (less than 5 mm), which may be facilitated by medication. For example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve pain, and alpha blockers such as tamsulosin can help the urinary tract relax and promote stone passage. Stones larger than 1 cm and accompanied by pain or obstruction usually require more aggressive treatment. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a common treatment method, which uses high-energy sound waves to break up stones and is suitable for stones less than 2 cm in diameter. Minimally invasive surgical methods such as percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) are used for larger kidney stones, and flexible ureteroscopy is suitable for higher and stubborn stones. Recurrence of stones also needs to be prevented. The type of stone is determined by urine composition analysis to provide a basis for subsequent treatment.

Medical treatment is usually suitable for smaller stones (less than 5 mm), which may be facilitated by medication. For example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve pain, and alpha blockers such as tamsulosin can help the urinary tract relax and promote stone passage. Stones larger than 1 cm and accompanied by pain or obstruction usually require more aggressive treatment. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a common treatment method, which uses high-energy sound waves to break up stones and is suitable for stones less than 2 cm in diameter. Minimally invasive surgical methods such as percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) are used for larger kidney stones, and flexible ureteroscopy is suitable for higher and stubborn stones. Recurrence of stones also needs to be prevented. The type of stone is determined by urine composition analysis to provide a basis for subsequent treatment.

Prevention of recurrence and adjuvant treatment require adjustments to diet and lifestyle. Drinking plenty of water is the most important measure, and it is recommended to maintain a daily urine output of more than 2.5 liters. Reduce the intake of foods high in oxalate (such as spinach) and purine (such as offal), and increase the intake of citrate (lemonade is a common choice). Regular review of stone composition and assessment of changes in urine composition can help to accurately intervene and prevent stone regeneration. If the pain is severe or accompanied by infection, you should seek medical treatment in time and do not delay the condition.