Kidney stones cause urinary tract infection symptoms. Will the stones be cured by injection?

Urinary tract infections caused by kidney stones may improve as the stones are treated, but the infection itself requires targeted treatment, such as antibiotics. The key to treatment is to remove the stones, control the infection, and prevent recurrence.

Why do kidney stones cause urinary tract infections?

Kidney stones are solid substances formed by the deposition of minerals and salts in urine, which may cause mechanical irritation or blockage to the urinary tract. Stones block the flow of urine, causing urine retention, which breeds bacteria and increases the risk of infection. The rough surface of stones may also directly provide a place for bacteria to attach, increasing the chance of urinary tract infection. According to research, small stones may cause urinary pain and inflammation more frequently due to their ease of movement, while large stones are usually accompanied by a high risk of complications.

2Main symptoms and risks of urinary tract infection

Urinary tract infections caused by kidney stones often present with dysuria, burning sensation when urinating, frequent urination, urgency, and even hematuria or pyuria. When the infection is severe, it may also be accompanied by fever, chills, and severe pain in the lower back. This condition may further develop into an upper urinary tract infection, such as pyelonephritis, and even lead to life-threatening complications such as sepsis. Patients should seek medical attention immediately if they experience similar symptoms to prevent the condition from worsening.

3 Effects of stone treatment on symptoms

Kidney stones can be treated with both non-surgical and surgical treatments. Smaller stones can be passed by drinking more water and taking medications, including alpha blockers such as tamsulosin, to promote stone passage. For larger stones, the following methods are usually used:

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): shock waves are used to break up stones and pass them out with urine. This is a more common and non-invasive method.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL): Suitable for larger or complex stones, the doctor uses minimally invasive technology to directly remove the stones.

Flexible ureteroscopy: laser lithotripsy is used to break up small stones in the middle of the urinary tract.

After the stones are removed, the symptoms of urinary tract infection can be relieved, but antibiotics are still needed to control the infection. At the same time, the doctor will choose broad-spectrum antibiotics or targeted antibiotics based on the patient's bacterial culture results.

4 How to prevent recurrence of kidney stones and urinary tract infections

Dietary adjustment: Reduce the intake of high-oxalate foods such as spinach and nuts, increase the intake of citrus fruits and vegetables appropriately, and limit salt and animal protein.

Drink plenty of water: It is recommended to drink 2-3 liters of water per day, which helps dilute urine and reduce the chance of stone formation.

Regular physical examinations: Especially those with a history of stones or infections need to undergo regular imaging examinations such as urinary tract ultrasound and urine analysis to monitor potential recurrence risks.

After the stones are removed, if the condition is effectively controlled, the symptoms are expected to improve significantly, but attention should be paid to infection treatment and daily prevention to avoid recurrence and improve the quality of life.