How to treat kidney stones in an 80-year-old man

For people over 80 years old, the treatment of kidney stones should be based on the size of the stones, the severity of symptoms and physical condition. Common treatments include conservative treatment, drug litholysis, minimally invasive surgery and lifestyle adjustments.

1Conservative treatment:

For asymptomatic kidney stones or those smaller than 5 mm, the elderly can choose conservative treatment. This method is usually combined with drinking more water to promote the discharge of stones. The recommended daily water intake is 2000-3000 ml, and the urine remains clear. At the same time, low-intensity activities such as walking can be appropriately increased to help the natural metabolism of stones. It is also necessary to avoid high-oxalate, high-purine and high-calcium foods, such as spinach and animal offal, to reduce the risk of new stones.

2. Drug treatment:

For the first attack of kidney stones or cases with mild pain, drug treatment can be selected. Typical drugs include antispasmodics and analgesics such as ibuprofen to relieve pain, stone removal drugs such as α receptor antagonists such as tamsulosin, and drugs that alkalinize urine such as potassium sodium citrate to help dissolve some components of stones. However, since the kidney function of the elderly may be weakened, doctors need to evaluate liver and kidney function and drug interactions before taking the medicine.

3Minimally invasive surgery:

For stones larger than 1 cm in diameter, irregular in shape, or causing recurrent infection or severe pain, minimally invasive surgery should be considered. Options include extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), and ureteroscopy or soft ureteroscopy. The specific surgical method depends on the location of the stone and the patient's general health. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is less invasive and more suitable for the elderly.

4 Lifestyle Adjustments:

After surgery or during treatment, the elderly need to adjust their diet and self-management to prevent stone recurrence. It is recommended to reduce salt and animal protein intake, maintain a balanced diet, and regularly monitor kidney function and urine composition. If necessary, calcium supplementation can be carried out under the guidance of a doctor, but be careful to avoid excessive intake.

For kidney stones, people over 80 need to adopt scientific treatment plans under the guidance of doctors to avoid blind medication or delayed treatment. Timely medical treatment, regular check-ups and improvement of lifestyle habits are the key to ensuring treatment effectiveness and improving quality of life.