What To Do If A Kidney Stone Moves Into The Ureter

If a kidney stone moves into the ureter, prompt and appropriate treatment is essential to prevent complications. When a stone travels from the kidney into the ureter, it can cause blockage and discomfort. The treatment approach depends on the size, location, and severity of the obstruction.

Conservative Management For Smaller Stones
For smaller stones that have not caused significant blockage or kidney swelling, conservative treatment may be recommended. Doctors often prescribe medications such as alpha-blockers, like tamsulosin, to help relax the ureteral muscles and facilitate the passage of the stone. In addition, certain herbal remedies such as stone-expelling granules may be used in conjunction with Western medicine.

Drinking plenty of water is crucial to increase urine output, which helps flush the stone out naturally. Physical activity, such as climbing stairs or jumping rope, can also encourage the stone to move down the urinary tract more quickly.

Medical Intervention For Larger Or Stuck Stones
If the stone is too large or becomes lodged in the ureter, medical procedures may be necessary. Two common options are extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), which uses sound waves to break the stone into smaller pieces, and ureteroscopic stone removal.

Depending on the location of the stone, different procedures may be used. For stones in the upper ureter, flexible ureteroscopy with holmium laser lithotripsy is often effective. For stones in the lower ureter, rigid ureteroscopy combined with either holmium laser or pneumatic lithotripsy can be performed to break up and remove the stone.

Why Ureteral Stones Require Attention
While the movement of a stone into the ureter may indicate that it is on its way out, the ureter contains three naturally narrow areas where stones can become trapped. If a stone remains stuck, it can lead to urinary tract obstruction, causing urine to back up and potentially leading to ureteral dilation or hydronephrosis. This can impair kidney function over time.

Consulting A Urologist Is Crucial
Anyone experiencing symptoms of a ureteral stone, such as severe flank pain, blood in the urine, or nausea, should seek care from a urologist. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications like kidney damage and chronic urinary issues. With proper medical care, most patients can expect a full recovery.