Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. While small stones can often pass on their own, larger kidney stones can cause significant discomfort and even lead to complications if left untreated. Symptoms like severe ureter pain, nausea, and blood in the urine are common signals that it’s time to see a doctor.
If you’ve been experiencing these symptoms, getting professional help is important. Schedule an appointment with Doral Health & Wellness Nephrology today to discuss your treatment options with a kidney stone specialist.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones develop when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. Dehydration, certain diets, and a family history of kidney stones can all increase the risk. Large stones can move from the kidney to the ureter, the thin tube connecting your kidney to your bladder, potentially causing intense ureter pain.
Symptoms of Large Kidney Stones
While small stones might not show symptoms until they pass, larger stones can cause:
- Severe pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen
- Pain that radiates to the groin
- Difficulty or pain during urination
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
These symptoms indicate that the stone may be too large to pass naturally and require a kidney stone removal procedure.
Kidney Stone Removal Procedures
When kidney stones are too large, or symptoms become unmanageable, a kidney stone doctor may recommend one of the following kidney stone removal procedures:
- Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL) – This non-invasive procedure uses sound waves to break large kidney stones into smaller fragments, making them easier to pass. It’s typically done on an outpatient set-up and requires little recovery time.
- Ureteroscopy – During this procedure, a tiny scope is inserted through the urethra to reach the ureter or kidney. The stone is either removed with small tools or broken into pieces using a laser. This is especially effective for stones lodged in the ureter.
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) – Used for very large stones, this procedure involves making a small incision in the back to remove the stone directly. It’s a more invasive approach but very effective for complicated cases.
- Surgery – While rare, open surgery may be necessary for extremely large or complex stones that cannot be managed with less invasive methods.
When to Seek Help from a Specialist
If you experience symptoms like severe ureter pain, recurring kidney stones, or complications like infections, it’s time to see a kidney stone specialist. Early intervention can help avoid further discomfort and potential kidney damage.
Take Action for Your Kidney Health
Don’t wait for kidney stones to disrupt your life. If you’re dealing with symptoms or have concerns about kidney stone removal, reach out to Doral Health & Wellness Nephrology today. Our experienced kidney stone doctors and specialists provide expert care and advanced solutions to keep your kidneys healthy. Take the first step toward relief and recovery with Doral Health & Wellness. Your comfort and health matter. You can visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11212, to schedule an appointment. You can also call us at 1-718-367-2555 or visit our website at https://doralhw.org.
