How to treat kidney stones

Treatments for kidney stones include medical stone removal, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, and surgical stone removal. The specific choice depends on the size, location, and condition of the stone. The formation of kidney stones is related to metabolic abnormalities, dietary structure, genetic factors, and urinary tract infections. Timely intervention can effectively relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.

1. Drug treatment: Suitable for stones with a diameter of less than 6 mm. Commonly used drugs include α-receptor blockers such as tamsulosin, which can relax ureteral smooth muscles and promote stone excretion; non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, which are used to relieve pain; diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide, which can increase urine volume and help flush stones. Drug treatment should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor, and avoid self-medication.

2. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: It is suitable for stones with a diameter of 6-20 mm. The shock waves generated outside the body break up the stones and facilitate their discharge. This treatment does not require surgery and is less invasive, but it may cause complications such as hematuria and perinephric hematoma. After the operation, you need to drink more water to promote the discharge of the broken stones, and have regular follow-up examinations.

3. Surgical stone removal: It is suitable for stones with a diameter greater than 20 mm or stones that are ineffective with drug treatment. Common surgical methods include percutaneous nephrolithotomy, ureteroscopic lithotomy and open surgery. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy enters the kidney through skin puncture to remove stones; ureteroscopic lithotomy enters the ureter through the urethra to remove stones; open surgery is suitable for complex cases, with greater trauma and longer recovery time.

To prevent kidney stones, you need to pay attention to dietary adjustments, reduce the intake of high-oxalate, high-purine and high-salt foods, such as spinach, animal offal and pickled foods; increase water intake, and keep the daily water intake at 2000-3000 ml; exercise moderately to promote metabolism and stone excretion. Regular physical examinations can detect and deal with potential problems in time to avoid recurrence of stones. The treatment of kidney stones requires a personalized plan based on individual conditions, timely medical treatment and follow the doctor's advice to ensure the effectiveness and safety of treatment.