Effective Treatment Options for 8mm Kidney Stones: From Medications to Surgery
Do you experience sharp, intense pain in your back, sides, or lower abdomen that comes and goes suddenly? You might be experiencing kidney stones. Kidney stones, formed from mineral deposits, can be excruciating and require immediate medical attention. The size of the kidney stones also matters as it can determine the intensity of pain and the treatment required. In this article, we’ll discuss effective treatment options for 8mm kidney stones, from medications to surgery.
1. Medications
If you have a small kidney stone that can be quickly and easily passed through urination, you may not need medical intervention. In this case, your doctor might prescribe pain relievers and alpha blockers, which help relax the muscles in your ureter, making it easier for the stone to pass through. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also help relieve the pain associated with kidney stones.
2. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
If the size of your kidney stone is larger than 8mm, your doctor might recommend Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL). In this procedure, high-energy shock waves are used to break the stones into small fragments, which can then pass through urine. This non-invasive method is highly effective, but it might require several sessions and may cause side effects such as bleeding or bruising.
3. Ureteroscopy and Laser Lithotripsy
If ESWL is not a viable option, your doctor might recommend Ureteroscopy and Laser Lithotripsy. In this procedure, a small ureteroscope is inserted into the ureter through the bladder, and a laser is used to break down the kidney stones. The fragments can then be passed out through urination. This method is highly effective, but, like ESWL, it may require several sessions.
4. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
If the kidney stone is too large to be removed by ESWL or Ureteroscopy and Laser Lithotripsy, your doctor might recommend Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL). In this procedure, a small incision is made in your back, and a scope is inserted into your kidney. The stone is then broken up using a laser or ultrasound, and the fragments are removed through the incision. This invasive method is highly effective, but it involves a longer recovery period.
5. Prevention Tips
Once you’ve experienced kidney stones, you’re more prone to getting them again. To prevent future kidney stones, it’s essential to make some changes in your lifestyle. Drinking plenty of water, reducing your sodium intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding foods that are high in oxalates can help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Conclusion
Kidney stones can be excruciating and require immediate medical attention. The size of the kidney stone determines the intensity of pain and the treatment required. Medications and non-invasive procedures like ESWL and Ureteroscopy and Laser Lithotripsy are effective treatments for small kidney stones. Invasive procedures like PCNL are effective but involve a longer recovery period. It’s essential to make lifestyle changes and adopt preventive measures to avoid future kidney stones. If you’re experiencing kidney stone symptoms, seeking medical attention as soon as possible can make all the difference.
