
How to pass kidney stones
Disease description:
A while ago during a hospital check-up, I was diagnosed with kidney stones, but it doesn't seem very serious, and I haven't experienced any physical discomfort. I would like to ask, what is the best way to pass such small stones?

The method of expelling stones mainly depends on the type, size, and location of the stone. The following are some common treatment options:
1. Increased fluid intake: For small urinary tract stones, increased water consumption can help naturally expel the stones, as drinking more water increases urine production, helping flush the stones out of the body.
2. Medication: For certain types of stones (e.g., calcium oxalate stones), doctors may prescribe medications to help dissolve the stones or reduce further growth. For example, alpha-blockers are sometimes used to help relax the ureter and promote stone expulsion.
3. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): For larger stones not involving the kidney, doctors may recommend ESWL, which uses high-energy shock waves to break the stones into smaller pieces, allowing them to pass naturally.
4. Endoscopic surgery: If the stone is located in the urethra or bladder, doctors may use an endoscope (a thin, flexible optical device) to directly remove or fragment the stone.
5. Laparoscopic surgery: In some complex cases, laparoscopic surgery may be required to remove the stone.