The kidney stones are solid masses composed of tiny crystals that some form in the kidneys; their presentation can be one or more, which is a widespread problem today. Various causes can form them, and the result always involves issues and is very common in people between 20 and 30 years old. This problem can be treated through a straightforward and non-invasive procedure known as lithotripsy. However, many people do not understand what this procedure consists of, that is why in this FastlyHealarticle, we will explain everything about lithotripsy: what it is. Recovery and side effects. In this way, you can select this simple treatment with excellent results.
Table of Contents
What is lithotripsy
It is a medical procedure that breaks the stones in the kidney, bladder, or ureter through shock waves. A stone is a solid mass of tiny crystals, also called kidney stones. The advantage of this procedure is that the shock waves are used outside the human body. Locate the lithiasis. It is done with ultrasound or radiography; Once oriented, the machine in charge of directing the shock waves to the lithiasis is located until it ruptures.
Depending on the size of the stone or its composition, several sessions may be considered until it turns into sand and then is excreted. This procedure is the first choice when the lithiasis is in the initial part of the ureter. Its contraindications may be in pregnancy, obesity, urinary tract infections, arterial aneurysms, skeletal malformations, etc.
It is considered an excellent technique for stone rupture since this procedure does not require the use of anesthesia or a scalpel, so it is not traumatic. To carry out the process, the patient must wear a hospital gown and must be lying down. Later, they will take something to calm the pain and, in this way, they will begin the use of shock waves through an ultrasound, which will pass through the body and, finally, break the calculations, being a straightforward procedure.
Literotica: recovery
Lithotripsy is a straightforward procedure, but because it is an equal intervention that requires recovery, that is why it will be recommended to do the following:
First, despite being a non-invasive treatment, another person must take the patient home from the hospital. Once you arrive, you should generally rest for the first day or two and avoid straining. In case of consuming tobacco or alcohol, it should be avoided. Your doctor can also tell you about postural exercises to do.
Subsequently, an adequate diet should be followed under the indication of the treating physician and avoid, mainly, foods that are high in calcium or purine (such as meats), in addition to avoiding eating foods that promote the production of stones in the kidneys and, conversely, increase daily water consumption. It is recommended to reduce the consumption of dairy foods, avoid constipation, and try to urinate constantly and empty the bladder before and after having sex.
In case of pain, the person may consider taking pain relievers. You should only call your doctor in case of severe pain, bleeding, vomiting, foul-smelling urine, burning when urinating, dizziness, heart rhythm disturbances such as tachycardia, fever, etc.
There are occasions that people report having colic. In case of having it, it is recommended to immerse yourself in hot water. This will improve the condition, in addition to taking the respective painkillers.
Side effects of lithotripsy
It should be taken into account that it can produce side effects despite being a non-invasive treatment. However, they disappear once it rests and the doctor’s instructions are followed. Among the most frequent, we will mention the following:
- Pain or feeling of discomfort.
- Urine infection: it can be caused by the presence of bacteria in the stones.
- Gastrointestinal effects: in case of having many sessions due to several kidney stones.
- The reappearance of stones: when the smallest fragments are not eliminated.
After treatment, the reduction in the appearance of stones (when they have been eliminated) and the symptoms that a person may present disappear quickly.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Lithotripsy: what it is, recovery and side effects, we recommend that you enter our Kidneys and urinary system category.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.