Medically termed as renal colic, kidney stone pain is often experienced as an excruciating ordeal. The severe discomfort occurs when a stone blocks the urinary flow through the tract and results in zinging and cramping pain centralized in the back and sides and sometimes extends to the lower abdomen and groin area. Those impacted must understand effective techniques to relieve the pain in a timely manner.
Understanding Kidney Stones & Their Symptoms
Hard deposits formed from mineral and salt deposits in the kidney gives birth to kidney stones. As the urine becomes more concentrated, the minerals tend to crystallize and stick together so any excess water results in the formation of kidney stones. The common types of kidney stones consists of struvite stones and cystine stones.
Symptoms of kidney stones may include:
- Severe aching in pain in the affected side, back, and lower ribs.
- Pain radiating to lower abdomen and upper region of the thighs.
- Pain that has a periodic presence along with waxing and waning levels of severity.
- Urination with pain
- Urinating with a tint of pink, red, or brownish color.
- Urine with haze and having unpleasant or disgusting smell.
- Feelings of vomiting and nausea.
- Urinating with uncontrollable feelings.
- Having the necessity of urinating more than normal.
- Chills, fever, and pain “if” an infection is there.
- Strategies relieve pain instantly
- Pain relief medications
Over the counter two different drugs mainly non steroidal anti inflammatory ones ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) and naproxen (Aleve) are suggested to treat the pain induced by a kidney stone. Those medications saw the decrease of an inflammation and the resignation of pain. Recommended dose rates should be follow and ask a healthcare practitioner in case there are certain thinks about health at the back.
Drink fluids
Keeping hydrated is of utmost importance. Water has the potential to “rinse-can” the urinary system and assist in passing of the stone. It is recommended to consume enough water to reach a bright, pale color. The effectiveness of adding certain components like lemon juice in helping dissolve stones or aiding in their passage remains unknown.
Medical therapy directed at clearance of the ureters
Alpha blockers like tamsulosin may be given to relax the muscles of the ureter aiding in the faster and less serious discomfort in movement of stones.
This treatment has particular effectiveness for handling stones found in the ureter.
Heat Application
Through the use of a heating pad, muscles can relax, therefore relieving pain within the targeted area. Be sure to set the heat to a comfortable level to avoid burns.
Body Positioning
Particular sleeping positions can be reliefaing. Lying curled up on your side with knees lightly bent or lying supine (back) with legs on a pillow may relieve pressure and discomfort.
Medical Contact: When Do You Seek Attention?
While some home remedies can alleviate pain, these could warrant medical attention:
- Unmanageable Pain: If pain persists regardless of taking over-the-counter pain meds.
- Signs of Infection: Fever meets either chills or cloudy urine and may need urgent care.
- Obstructive: Not being able to urinate or experiencing nausea and vomiting items.
Expert Medical Surgical Treatments
For stones capable of being passed but causing significant discomfort, intervention is warranted:
- Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS): it is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a flexible endoscope, inserted through the urinary tract, to access and treat kidney stones without external incisions.
- Extracorporal shock wave lithotripsy (or ESWL): blasting or breaking down stones into smaller fragments utilizing sound waves to render it passable.
- Ureteroscopy: Thin scope is inserted to pull stones out (snare) or adjust the position of stones (reshape).
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: Complete surgical removal of particularly large stones through a small back incision.
Preventive Measures
To reduce the chances of having kidney stones in the future:
- Maintain Hydration: Drink enough water regularly so that urine is not too concentrated.
- Dietary Modifications: Restrict the amount of sodium, oxalate containing foods, and animal protein.
- Regular Medical Check-Ups: Keep track of kidney health status, particularly in those with stones.
Closing Thoughts
In order to immediately get relief from kidney stone pain, certain home remedies can be used, but sometimes medical attention might be needed. An experienced urologist is best suited to help in formulating the best management and finest prevention strategies.
Dr. Deepanshu Gupta is an expert urologist in Gurgaon/Delhi NCR, who has worked for more than ten years in endourology, andrology, and renal transplant surgery. He holds an exclusive insight due to the experience gathered from caring for thousands of patients. His unique approach to personal care allows them to express their concerns and objectives which ensures every undergoing treatment is catered for.
For effective management of kidney stones and other urological problems, do not hesitate in seeking help for expert care and treatment with Dr. Gupta.