How to treat kidney stones and urinary stones

The treatment of kidney stones and urinary stones requires choosing appropriate methods based on the size, location, symptoms and personal health status of the stones. It mainly includes three methods: drug lithotripsy, surgical treatment and lifestyle adjustment. At the same time, symptomatic treatment can relieve pain and prevent recurrence.

1. Drug treatment

For smaller kidney stones and urinary stones, drugs can be used to dissolve and remove the stones. Commonly used drugs include:

Alpha-blockers: such as tamsulosin, can help relax the ureters and facilitate the passage of stones.

Potassium citrate: can change the pH of urine, prevent stones from continuing to grow, and dissolve small stones.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): such as ibuprofen, are used to relieve pain caused by stones, but must be used under the guidance of a doctor.

Adequate water intake is required during medication, and the recommended daily water intake is 2.5-3 liters. At the same time, check the stone condition regularly.

2. Surgical treatment

If the stone is too large, with a diameter of more than 5 mm, is severely blocked, or causes infection, surgery is required to remove the stone. Common methods include:

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): uses sound waves to break up small to medium-sized stones, which are then excreted in the urine. It is suitable for uncomplicated stones.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL): Suitable for larger or complex stones. A channel is created through the skin to directly remove the stones, which causes relatively little trauma.

Ureteroscopic lithotripsy: Use a small endoscope to enter the ureter or renal pelvis to break up the stones, with less bleeding and faster recovery.

In more severe cases, open surgery may be necessary, but this is rare.

3. Lifestyle adjustment and prevention

Regardless of treatment, stone prevention is very important:

Dietary management: Reduce the intake of high-oxalate foods such as spinach, nuts, chocolate, high-sodium diets and animal protein, and eat more foods rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber to promote metabolic balance.

Drink enough water: Drink enough water every day to keep your urine dilute. It is recommended that your urine be colorless or light yellow.

Regular check-ups: Especially for those with a history of stones, regular monitoring through ultrasound or X-ray examinations is required to prevent recurrence or expansion of stones.

Timely detection and scientific treatment of kidney stones and urinary stones can avoid pain and complications. If you experience severe symptoms such as cramps in the waist and abdomen, fever, etc., you should go to the hospital immediately to seek professional help without delay. At the same time, by adjusting your lifestyle, controlling your diet and regular monitoring, you can effectively reduce the risk of stone formation and recurrence.