What to do if a kidney stone blocks the ureter

Nov 08, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Guang
Introduction
In general, symptoms caused by kidney stones blocking the ureter can be relieved through increased fluid intake, dietary adjustments, medication, ureteroscopic lithotripsy and stone extraction, acupuncture, and other methods. If symptoms persist, prompt medical attention at a hospital is recommended. In daily life, if kidney stones blocking the ureter occur, timely medical consultation is advised.

Generally, symptoms of kidney stones blocking the ureter can be alleviated through increased fluid intake, dietary adjustments, medication, ureteroscopic lithotripsy and stone removal, and acupuncture treatments. If symptoms persist, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Increased Fluid Intake

Drinking more water helps increase urine output, which can promote the movement of stones within the ureter and sometimes flush smaller stones out of the body naturally. Additionally, moderate consumption of lemon water may help relieve symptoms, as citric acid in lemons can aid in dissolving certain types of stones.

2. Dietary Adjustments

It is recommended to reduce intake of high-oxalate foods such as spinach and amaranth, as oxalate easily combines with calcium to form calcium oxalate stones. Additionally, sodium intake should be controlled, as excessive salt increases calcium excretion by the kidneys, thereby increasing the risk of stone formation.

3. Medication

For example, nifedipine tablets can help relieve ureteral smooth muscle spasms, thus promoting stone expulsion. In addition, pain-relief medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules and acetaminophen tablets can provide analgesic effects.

4. Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy and Stone Removal

This method is primarily used for treating stones located in the upper, middle, and lower segments of the ureter and some renal pelvis stones. The urologist inserts a ureteroscope through the urethra into the bladder, locates the stone, and then uses a lithotripsy device such as a laser, pneumatic lithoclast, or ultrasound to break up and remove the stone. This procedure is minimally invasive and allows for a quicker recovery.

5. Acupuncture

Under the guidance of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, acupuncture therapy can be used, typically involving stimulation of specific acupuncture points such as Zhongwan (CV12), Zusanli (ST36), and Sanyinjiao (SP6). This treatment can help promote urination and facilitate stone passage.

In daily life, if kidney stones block the ureter, timely medical consultation is recommended for treatment under a physician's guidance, which can aid in recovery.

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