How Many Days of Rest Are Needed After Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy

After undergoing extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), patients are generally advised to rest for at least three days. The exact duration of rest may vary depending on how well the body expels the broken stone fragments.

Understanding the Recovery Process
During ESWL, shock waves are used to break down kidney or ureteral stones into smaller pieces. While this is a non-invasive procedure, it can cause minor trauma to the kidneys or ureters. The repeated shock waves may lead to mild swelling or irritation, which can result in temporary discomfort or slight abdominal pain after the treatment.

Managing Post-Treatment Discomfort
It's normal to experience some level of discomfort after the procedure. If the pain is manageable, patients can return home the same day. It's important to drink plenty of water to help flush out the stone fragments and reduce the risk of new stone formation. Light physical activity, such as walking, is also encouraged to aid in the passage of the stones. However, strenuous exercise should be avoided as it may increase pain or cause further irritation, especially if there is still swelling in the urinary tract.

When Can Normal Activities Resume?
If there are no signs of complications such as persistent pain or blood in the urine after three days, patients should schedule a follow-up appointment with their doctor. Imaging tests may be performed to ensure all stone fragments have been expelled. If no residual stones are detected, normal daily activities can typically be resumed.

Follow-Up and Additional Treatment
In some cases, not all stones may be fully broken down or expelled. If remaining stones are detected, a second round of ESWL might be necessary, and the recovery period will need to be extended accordingly.

Alongside physical care, emotional well-being plays a role in recovery. Patients should try to stay relaxed and avoid stress. It's also recommended to avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods that could affect urinary health and slow down the healing process.