Kidney stones are a serious and painful medical issue. They cause a wide range of symptoms and can be treated in different ways depending on their size and the patient. Understanding the symptoms of kidney stones and the treatment options available are essential to passing them.
No two people are the same and the symptoms of kidney stones can vary from patient to patient. Some of the most common symptoms are pain in the back or belly, pain or burning during urination, a frequent and urgent need to urinate, urinating in small amounts, and cloudy or bloody urine. Someone experiencing these symptoms most likely has kidney stones and may need to consult a urologist for help.
One of the most troubling symptoms is the pain caused by kidney stones. Some female patients say the pain caused by the stones is worse than being in labor. In many cases, the person with kidney stones may suffer from nausea and vomiting. Although stones can often be passed by the patient on their own, in some cases medical assistance is required.
Treatment for kidney stones is done on a case-by-case basis, with the doctor examining the patient to determine the best treatment method for the individual. For patients experiencing pain, but who may be able to pass the kidney stone, the doctor may prescribe medication to ease the pain and make them comfortable as they wait for the stone to pass. In more serious cases, the doctor may need to surgically remove the stones or bypass them to drain urine and relieve pain.
A new way to remove large painful stones without surgery is Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL). With this non-invasive method the stones are broken up by a shock wave of energy focused on the point where the kidney stone is located. This shock wave breaks the kidney stone into a fine powder that is easier for the patient to pass. In severe cases, the doctor will enter with a scope through the urinary tract or kidney and destroy the stones with a laser.
Relief from the pain of kidney stones can be found at the Advanced Urology Institute, where experienced physicians determine the best treatment method available for each patient. For more information, visit the Advanced Urology Institute website.
