Lithotripsy is a technique commonly used for treating stones in the kidney and ureter that does not require surgery. Instead of surgery by cold steel method or lasers, high energy shock waves are passed through the body. These high-energy waves are used to break stones into pieces equivalent to grains of sand. For the reason of their small size, these pieces can pass from the body along with the urine easily. The best Nephrologists in Delhi have given their valuable insights on the same; continue reading to know more.
Eligibility of Kidney Stone Patients to Undergo This Treatment
The number, size, location and arrangement of the stones are some of the factors that must be taken into account when considering the treatment options that are available. Not all patients can undergo this treatment, and a doctor must be consulted. According to the best nephrologists in Delhi, the size of stone is the most important factor that needs to be considered while choosing a method for removal from the body.
For using the lithotripsy method, the stones must be clearly visible by the x-ray monitor so stones can be targeted accurately by the shock waves. If bodily irregularities prevent this, other methods of stone removal may have to be considered. Through examination, x-ray and other tests, the doctor can decide whether this is the best treatment for the patient. In some cases, the lithotripsy method can also be combined with other kinds of treatment.
Kidney Stone Symptoms
Some of the most common kidney stone symptoms are:
- Severe, strong pain in the side and back, below the ribs
- Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen
- Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
- Pain or burning sensation while urinating
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- A persistent need to urinate, urinating more often than usual or urinating in small amounts
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills if an infection is present
- Causes of Kidney Stones
- Kidney stones every so often have no certain, sole cause, although there are several factors associated that might increase your risk. Kidney stones occur in the body when your urine comprises more crystal-forming constituents — such as calcium, oxalate, along uric acid — than the fluid in your urine can water down. Simultaneously, your urine may lack constituents that prevent crystals from sticking together, forming an ideal setting for kidney stones to occur and form.
What to Expect Post-Treatment
After the treatment is complete, the patient can start moving almost immediately. Many people can fully continue daily activities within a day or two. Special dietary restrictions are not required, but drinking plenty of water helps in moving out the stones faster. Some pain may follow when the fragments pass out of the body, which begins soon after the treatment is done and may last for up to several weeks. Oral medication is also prescribed to overcome the same.
FAQ: What are the advantages and disadvantages of undergoing this treatment?
The main benefit of this treatment is that the majority of patients can be cured and treated for stones without having to undergo surgery. As a result, difficulties, prolonged hospital stays, heavy costs, and longer recovery time can be avoided. Unfortunately, not all types of kidney stones can be treated this way, but your doctor will be able to suggest better. In addition, stone pieces are occasionally left in the body, and added actions need to be taken.
In Conclusion!
Kidney stones can be tough to live with as they come with several difficulties in daily life. It is a good option to consider this treatment. The treatment can be considered if your doctor prescribes the same. It is a better option over surgery if you can be suitable for the same. The complications are less and the results are great too.
