Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
How kidney stones are treated: waiting for small stones, lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, PCNL and urgent drainage.
Treatment depends on the size, position and type of the stone and on whether there is infection or blockage.
Small stones (usually under 5 mm)
Stones that need active treatment
Procedures
After treatment
Rest, fluids, pain relief and follow-up scans. Stone analysis and prevention advice.
Is it curable?
An existing stone can be removed or passed. Stones often return unless the causes are treated, so prevention is part of treatment.
Complementary care
Ayurveda and herbal options may be used as an adjunct. They should not delay imaging or urgent procedures.
Key point
Small stones often pass with fluids and pain relief. Infection with blockage needs urgent hospital drainage.
Before your appointment
Note when the pain began, where it is, and whether you have noticed blood, fever, nausea or burning in your urine. Record how much you drink and pass urine in a day. List medicines and supplements, especially vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium and herbal products. Mention previous stones, gout, bowel surgery, urinary infections and family history. Bring earlier scans and reports. If you pass a stone, save it for analysis. Ask about tests, the stone type and a prevention plan. Call 112 for fever with pain or if you pass no urine.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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Preventing kidney stones: more water, less salt, balanced protein, keeping calcium and getting stone analysis.
Kidney stone home care: fluids, pain relief, activity, popular remedies that do not dissolve stones, and red flags.
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Ayurvedic view of kidney stones (ashmari): traditional herbs and diet, limited evidence and safety cautions.
