What is the fastest way to pass a ureteral stone?
Disease description:
I have developed a stone in my ureter and would like to ask the doctor: what is the quickest way to pass a ureteral stone?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
The speed at which ureteral stones are expelled is influenced by multiple factors, including stone size, location, shape, and individual physiological conditions. The following are common methods to accelerate stone expulsion:
1. Drink more water: Increased fluid intake helps produce more urine, which can assist in flushing out the stones. It is generally recommended to drink at least 2-3 liters of water daily to maintain clear urine.
2. Specific medications: Doctors may prescribe alpha-blockers such as tamsulosin, which can relax the muscles of the ureter and facilitate stone passage. In some cases, stone-dissolving medications such as alpha-ketoglutaric acid may also help dissolve smaller stones.
3. Physical therapies: Certain physical treatments, such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), can be used for larger stones, breaking them into smaller particles via external force, making them easier to expel naturally.
All attempts at stone expulsion should be conducted under the guidance of a physician.
