What are the consequences of kidney stones?

Kidney stones may lead to hydronephrosis, renal impairment and severe pain, and timely treatment and prevention are key. Treatments include medical stone removal, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy and surgical stone removal, while preventive measures involve drinking plenty of water, controlling diet and regular check-ups.

1. Hydronephrosis is one of the common consequences of renal calculi. Stones block the urinary tract, urine cannot be discharged normally, resulting in increased pressure in the renal pelvis and water accumulation in the kidney. Long-term hydronephrosis can damage the renal parenchyma and affect renal function. It is recommended to seek medical attention in time when symptoms such as waist and abdominal pain and difficulty urinating occur, and to confirm the diagnosis through B-ultrasound or CT examination, and to perform surgery to relieve the obstruction if necessary.

2. Renal damage is a potential serious consequence of nephrolithiasis. Repeated stimulation or long-term obstruction by stones can lead to a decrease in glomerular filtration rate, which can develop into chronic renal failure in severe cases. The key to preventing renal damage is early detection and treatment of stones, regular monitoring of renal function indicators such as blood creatinine and urea nitrogen, and dialysis or kidney transplantation when necessary.

3. Severe pain is a typical symptom of kidney stones. When stones move, they stimulate the ureter and cause renal colic. The pain can radiate to the lower abdomen and inner thigh. Ways to relieve pain include using antispasmodic and analgesic drugs such as diclofenac sodium, applying hot compresses to the painful area, and maintaining appropriate activities to promote the discharge of stones. If the pain persists or worsens, you need to seek medical treatment in time.

4. Urinary tract infection is a common complication of kidney stones. The rough surface of the stones is easy to breed bacteria, leading to urinary tract infection, frequent urination, urgency, and pain when urinating. Treatment requires the use of antibiotics such as levofloxacin, while treating the primary stones. To prevent infection, drink plenty of water, keep the perineum clean, and avoid holding urine.

5. Hematuria is a common manifestation of kidney stones. The stones rub against the urinary tract mucosa, causing local bleeding, which manifests as macroscopic hematuria or microscopic hematuria. If hematuria occurs, you should seek medical attention in time, conduct urine routine and imaging examinations to clarify the cause of bleeding. While treating primary stones, you can use hemostatic drugs such as tranexamic acid to prevent infection.

The consequences of kidney stones cannot be ignored, and early detection and treatment are crucial. Timely treatment of stones through medication, surgery, and other methods, as well as preventive measures such as drinking plenty of water and controlling diet, can effectively reduce the risk of complications and protect kidney function. Regular physical examinations and timely medical treatment are the key to preventing and controlling kidney stones.