Ureteral stones are hard mineral masses that develop in the kidney and then move into the ureter. They are known to cause severe pain, often resulting in kidney failure. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Raghavendra Kulkarni, Consultant Urologist, Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology Secunderabad, said, “Ureteric stones usually result in frequent hospital visits as they cause deep pain. Overall, ureteral stones do not form in the ureter, they first form in the kidney and then move into the ureter. “Not all kidney stones slide into the ureter.” Read this also Kidney Stones: Warning Signs and Symptoms, Causes, Treatment; how to stop
Ureteral stones: causes
Dr. Raghavendra Kulkarni said, “Uterine stones are formed due to the same reasons as kidney stones. One of the following factors definitely contributes to the formation of kidney/ureter stones; Decreased urine volume, increased levels of pro-lithogenic substances – which promote coagulation, decreased levels of protective substances – which promote natural dissolution.
Ureteral stones: symptoms
Ureteral stones can be understood and diagnosed by the pattern of pain they cause. “The pain usually occurs in the back, on one side of the spine. This pain spreads to the front part of the stomach, sometimes even reaches the waist. The pain is classically associated with nausea and vomiting. If the blockage in the ureter occurs very suddenly, there is a possibility of urinary tract infection due to poor drainage,” explained the urologist. Read this also Kidney Stone Symptoms, Precautions and Treatment Tips
Ureteral stones: treatment
The urologist noted that when ureteral stones do not pass out and are associated with fever or kidney damage, immediate surgery is recommended. “Surgical treatment is now done endoscopically and with the help of laser technology. Very rarely, larger stones in the ureter require intervention by percutaneous nephrolithotomy or laparoscopy,” says Dr. Raghavendra Kulkarni said.
Ureteral Stones: Preventive Measures
The doctor said that the prevention of ureteral stones is almost the same as that of kidney stones. “Ureteric stones are an emergency. Prevention of ureteral stones is similar to kidney stones. Some lifestyle modifications that can help prevent kidney stones or help pass ureter stones are; Hydration. With a good amount of hydration, stones in the ureter are likely to pass out by mechanical diuresis effect. One should be careful here, not all stones in the ureter come out on their own. With the following characteristics, spontaneous passage is more likely; Small size of stones, absence of symptoms like fever or malaise, normal functioning of kidneys. It is proven that as the size of the stone increases, the probability of its spontaneous passage decreases.” Read this also Urethritis to Prostatitis: Know the Common Urological Conditions Faced by Men
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
