Kidney & Bladder Stone Treatment in Nepal
Kidney and bladder stones can cause severe pain, urinary discomfort and other complications. Understanding the cause, stone size and location helps guide the right evaluation and treatment.
Explore common symptoms, diagnostic tests and treatment approaches for urinary stones with Dr. Anil Pukar Shah, Consultant Urologist.
Book an Appointment Explore Treatment OptionsWhat Are Kidney and Bladder Stones?
Urinary stones are hard deposits formed when minerals and other substances in urine crystallise. Stones may develop in the kidneys and travel through the ureters, the tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder. Stones can also form inside the bladder.
Small stones may pass naturally, while larger stones or stones causing obstruction, infection or persistent symptoms may require medical or procedural treatment.
Common Symptoms of Urinary Stones
Severe Side or Back Pain
Pain in the side, back or lower abdomen that may come in waves and spread towards the groin.
Blood in the Urine
Urine may appear pink, red or brown, although blood may only be detected on testing.
Urinary Discomfort
Burning, frequent urination or discomfort when a stone approaches the bladder or urethra.
Nausea or Vomiting
Some people experience nausea or vomiting alongside intense stone-related pain.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Stones form for several reasons. The type of stone, urine composition and a person’s medical history can all affect risk.
- Not drinking enough fluids, leading to concentrated urine.
- High levels of certain minerals or stone-forming substances in urine.
- Dietary factors, including high salt intake in some people.
- A family history of kidney stones or previous stone episodes.
- Certain medical conditions, urinary infections or medications.
- Urinary obstruction or incomplete bladder emptying, which may contribute to bladder stones.
The best prevention plan depends on the stone type and, when indicated, the results of blood and urine tests or laboratory analysis of a passed or removed stone.
How Are Kidney and Bladder Stones Diagnosed?
Assessment helps identify the stone’s location, size, possible obstruction and any associated infection.
Medical History & Examination
Symptoms, previous stones, medical history and a clinical examination help guide further testing.
Urine & Blood Tests
Tests may check for blood, infection, kidney function and relevant metabolic abnormalities.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound can help identify certain stones, urinary obstruction and bladder abnormalities.
CT Scan or Other Imaging
A CT scan may be recommended when more detailed information about stone size and location is needed.
Not every patient needs every test. The choice depends on symptoms, clinical findings, pregnancy status where relevant and the suspected location of the stone.
Kidney and Bladder Stone Treatment Options
Treatment depends on stone size, location, composition, symptoms, kidney function and whether infection or obstruction is present. Some stones can be monitored, while others need a procedure.
1. Observation & Medical Management
Selected small stones may pass without a procedure. A clinician may recommend pain relief, appropriate hydration and sometimes medication to help a ureteric stone pass. Follow-up is important to ensure the stone has cleared and the kidney is not obstructed.
2. Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL)
SWL uses externally generated shock waves to break selected stones into smaller fragments that can pass in urine. Suitability depends on stone size, location, density and other clinical factors.
3. Ureteroscopy (URS)
A thin instrument is passed through the urinary tract to reach a stone in the ureter or, in suitable cases, the kidney. The stone may be fragmented with a laser and fragments removed.
4. RIRS — Flexible Ureteroscopy
Retrograde intrarenal surgery uses a flexible scope to reach stones inside the kidney. A laser may be used to fragment the stone. It is an option for selected patients based on the stone and individual circumstances.
5. PCNL — Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
PCNL removes larger or complex kidney stones through a small access tract in the back. It is commonly considered for large stone burdens or certain complex stones when appropriate.
6. Bladder Stone Removal
Bladder stones may be broken and removed using an instrument passed through the urethra. In selected situations, another surgical approach may be needed. The cause of the stone, such as incomplete bladder emptying, should also be assessed.
What Happens After Stone Treatment?
Recovery varies with the stone, procedure and individual health. Some people return to normal activities quickly, while others need more time and follow-up.
- Follow the treating clinician’s instructions about activity, medicines and fluids.
- If a ureteric stent is placed, understand when and how it will be removed.
- Attend recommended follow-up imaging or urine and blood tests.
- If possible, have a removed or passed stone analysed when advised.
- Discuss prevention measures based on stone type and personal risk.
How Can You Help Prevent Stones?
Prevention is individualised, but commonly includes drinking enough fluid to maintain good urine output, reducing excessive salt intake and following dietary advice suited to the stone type.
- Ask your clinician how much fluid is appropriate for you, especially if you have heart or kidney conditions.
- Avoid making major dietary changes without understanding your stone type.
- Take prescribed preventive medicines as directed.
- Attend follow-up if you have recurrent stones or an identified metabolic risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can kidney stones pass naturally?
Yes, some small stones pass naturally. The likelihood depends on stone size, location and other factors. Follow-up is important, because a stone can remain obstructive even if symptoms improve.
Are all kidney stones treated with surgery?
No. Some stones can be monitored or managed medically. Procedures may be needed for larger stones, persistent symptoms, obstruction, infection-related concerns or stones unlikely to pass safely.
What is the difference between kidney stones and bladder stones?
Kidney stones form in the kidneys and may move into the ureter. Bladder stones form in the bladder and can be associated with difficulty emptying it completely. Evaluation helps identify the location and contributing cause.
Can kidney stones come back?
Yes. Recurrence is possible. Stone analysis, selected urine or blood tests and individualised prevention may help reduce future risk.
When should I seek urgent care for a suspected stone?
Seek urgent medical attention for fever or chills, severe or uncontrolled pain, persistent vomiting, inability to pass urine, or symptoms that are rapidly worsening. Do not delay assessment if infection and urinary obstruction may be present.
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Book a ConsultationMedical disclaimer: This page is for general educational purposes and does not replace an individual medical consultation, diagnosis or treatment plan. Treatment decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare professional after appropriate assessment. Confirm the services and procedures offered by the clinic before publication.