Navigating the Sharp Stones: A Guide to Treatment and Prevention of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are a common urinary disease that occur when minerals in urine crystallize and accumulate over time. A study by MSc. Nguyen Truong Hoan from the Department of Urology at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City found that 1-13% of the world’s population has kidney stones, with 2-12% of the Vietnamese population affected, 40% of which are kidney stones.

Treatment for kidney stones varies depending on factors such as size, location, and complexity. Small stones measuring between 4-6 mm can be dissolved and shrunk through medication and increased water intake to allow them to be excreted through urine. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a non-invasive method that uses shock wave energy to break up kidney stones, while percutaneous and endoscopic lithotripsy are minimally invasive methods that involve inserting a laser device to crush and remove stones.

In some cases, open surgery may be necessary for larger and more complex stones, but this method is highly invasive and carries risks of complications, making it the least preferred option. After treatment, patients are advised to make lifestyle changes such as drinking plenty of water, limiting certain foods and substances, exercising regularly, and having regular check-ups to detect any recurrent stones early on.

Individuals experiencing symptoms like severe back pain, hematuria (blood in urine), recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), painful urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, fever or chills should seek medical attention immediately as they may be at risk for developing kidney stones or other urinary tract diseases. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications such as kidney damage or infection spread throughout the body while preserving kidney function.