Kidney stone pain: Why the pain hits like waves you can’t ignore

At any age, kidney stones can be a common and painful ailment. Sharp, cramping pain that comes in waves is the common description of kidney stone pain. The pain is caused by a blockage that occurs as the stone travels from the kidney down the ureter, which is the fine tube about 20-25cm long that connects the kidney to the bladder. If a stone is too large to pass on its own or causes other complications, ureteroscopy may need to be performed.

A minimally invasive technique called ureteroscopy is used to identify and get rid of ureteric stones. Ureteroscopy does not require incisions or stitches, in contrast with standard surgery. The urethra and bladder, which make up the normal urine channel, are used to insert a ureteroscope—a tiny tube—into the ureters. A tiny camera at the end of the ureteroscope makes it possible to see the stone clearly. Depending on the size and position, the stone can subsequently be broken up into multiple smaller pieces with the use of a laser or removed directly.

This technique is usually safe and effective, especially for stones that are lodged in the ureter. The process, which takes around 30 to 60 minutes, is carried out under spinal or general anesthesia. After the stone is removed, a stent—a fine tube—may occasionally be temporarily placed in the ureter to promote healing and unrestricted urine flow from the kidney to the bladder.

After a ureteroscopy, recovery is usually quick. In a few days, many people will feel prepared to resume their regular schedule. Some people may have minor lower abdominal pain, faint blood in their urine, or light burning when they urinate; these symptoms usually subside over a couple of days. Patients are urged to consume a lot of liquids to aid in the removal of any little remaining pieces and, naturally, promote healing.

As kidney stones are known to recur, it is important to stick to the urologist's advice for preventative measures, which include eating a nutritious diet, getting frequent checkups, and drinking lots of fluids. Medication or dietary changes are generally recommended, depending on the type of stones. One of the safest and most effective methods for treating kidney stones that cannot be passed naturally is ureteroscopy.

Dr. Ankit Sharma, Consultant - Urology, Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, Pune