In the case of millions of individuals around the world, kidney stones end up making life considerably more uncomfortable for everyone suffering from it. In case of a diagnosis, a burning question that comes to the mind is can I postpone the removal of the stones? The answer to it is not straight and rather complex. There are specific types of stones that can be passed out naturally whereas some would need medical assistance to be removed. But, having no treatment could be a recipe for disaster resulting in intense agony, infection, or even kidney failure.
This blog aims to discuss the dilemma of when it is safe to be put on hold, when one must have immediate care, and the consequences of postponing the removal of kidney stones.
What are kidney stones?
Excessively concentrated urine results in an overabundance of minerals and salts which are crystalline in nature embedding themselves in the kidney called “kidney stones”. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and compositions. Most people can expel small stones effortlessly and symptomless, however, medium to large stones can lead to severe suffering and even dire conditions.
Common Causes Of kidney stones
Below are common causes of kidney stones :-
- Dehydration – Failure to consume enough water can lead to urine getting overly concentrated, which maximizes the chances of stone formation.
- High Salt or Protein Intake – High levels of salt along with animal protein in the diet can increase the chances of developing stones.
- Family History – Those with a family history of kidney stones are at a higher likelihood of developing the condition.
- Hyperparathyroidism, diabetes, and obesity are medical issues that foster higher rates of stone formation.
- Certain medications, including diuretics and antacids containing calcium, can also lead to the development of stones.
When Can Kidney Stones Be Left Untreated?
In some scenarios, kidney stones can naturally dissolve over time without immediate medical intervention. Here are some conditions where it is advisable to wait:-
- Smaller than 4 mm stones or Small Size Stones – Stones that measure under 4 mm in size tend to dissolve spontaneously when the individual is sufficiently hydrated.
- Minimal Pain or No Pain – A medical practitioner may suggest delay in treatment as long as kidney stones are not causing severe discomfort.
- Absence of Blockage and Infection – In the absence of moderate to severe pain, a blockage or the presence of an infection, a wait-and-monitor approach is justified.
- Frequent Urination Without Discomfort – If you are able to urinate quite often and are not in extreme discomfort, most doctors will support the idea of natural passage.
It is critical to note that all waiting time should be strictly monitored by a professional practitioner, and it is also necessary to make lifestyle changes that will promote faster stone passage, like drinking more water.
Kidney Stone Treatment: When to Act Before it’s Too Late.
Not all kidney stones require immediate removal, but some do. Failure to treat them in a timely manner runs the risk of developing complications such as, kidney damage. Here are the signs to look out for:
- Severe Pain That Comes and Goes – A person complaining about severe pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen could very well be suffering from a stone moving in the urinary tract or blocking it.
- Burning Sensation While Urinating – A person may experience difficulty in urinating and there may also be a burning sensation present due to the stone obstructing the kidneys.
- Blood in Urine (Hematuria) – If the stone is left untreated, it has the power to damage kidney tissues and a person would experience symptoms such as red, pink, or brown urine.
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTI’s) – Infected urine flow blockage can turn out to be grave as it may eventually result in nausea, and intense chills alongside fever.
- Nausea & Vomiting – When experiencing nausea alongside kidney pain, it’s highly likely that the stone has expanded and is resulting in major obstruction.
- Stone larger than 6mm – Stones this size do require medical attention as they will not pass on their own.
If these signs are ignored, they can greatly affect kidney health and this could lead to a condition known as hydronephrosis, in which the kidney becomes swollen due to urine flow blockages.
Consequences Of Prolonging Kidney Stone Treatment
If you leave kidney stones untreated with harsh discomfort, these are a few things that can happen:-
1. Damage And Discomfort Progressively Increasing
The movement of the stone along the ureter generates extreme discomfort termed renal colic. This type of pain is extremely intense and is most likely to have been admitted to the hospital for treatment.
2. Infection & Sepsis Hazards
Renal stones have the ability to harbor bacteria within the urinary system, which results in recurrent infections. If left unchecked, these infections are capable of causing sepsis, a dangerously fatal state where the infection disseminates within the organism.
3. Deterioration Of The Kidneys With Partial Or Complete Dysfunction
Obstructive hydronephrosis is a condition developed due to a renal stone that leads to urine stasis for a considerable time. This, in combination with protracted obstruction, impairs the kidney in the long term and leads to non-functioning or very severely compromised renal functionality.
4. Detrusor Atonia And Urinary Bladder Issues
Large kidney stones are likely to result in the complete stoppage of urine outflow, resulting in urinary retention, bladder distension, and at times even destruction of bladder musculature.
Need for More Invasive Treatment Later
Not treating the condition at hand can cause the stone to expand over time, which will leave deviant forms of treatment less effective. In this case, the intervention will require a surgical step, for instance:-
- Laser Lithotripsy (URS) – This approach involves fragmenting the stone into smaller pieces with the help of a laser.
- Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL) – This technique utilizes sound waves to convert the stone into numerous small fragments.
- Percutaneous Nephrolithomy (PCN) – This technique involves making a cut or incision into the skin for the removal of large stones.
What Should You Do If You Have Kidney Stones?
Here are some ways to manage your condition if you have kidney stones and are thinking of postponing treatment:
- Stay Hydrated – It is highly beneficial to consume between 2 to 3 liters of water every day as this promotes the natural passing of smaller stones.
- Modify Your Diet – Adding salt, animal protein, or oxalate-rich foods such as spinach, nuts, or chocolate will increase stone growth and should be avoided.
- Stay Active – Engaging in light physical activities can help facilitate the falling of the stone.
- Follow Prescribed Medicines- Some relaxation medications prescribed will assist with the passing of the stone from the urinary tract’s body.
- Consult a Urologist Regularly – This step is essential to avoid being untimely treated if the symptoms worsen along with an increase in the stone size.
Final Thoughts: Trust An Expert Like Dr. Deepanshu Gupta
Kidney stones can be quite problematic and can lead to severe consequences if disregarded for extensive time periods. Some stones do pass by themselves, but if they are bigger in size coupled with pain, your kidney is at risk of sustaining damage.
If you are hesitant about treatment options, seeking guidance from an expert is extremely important. Dr. Deepanshu Gupta, an experienced urologist and kidney stones specialist, has successfully treated hundreds through bespoke treatment plans along with the modern surgical methods.
If you are feeling symptoms related to kidney stones, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with Dr. Deepanshu Gupta today. He will provide you with the best possible recommendations and remedies tailored to suit your condition.
Your health is in your control, make the right decision today!