How long does Kidney Stones Treatment Take to Cure the Disease?
Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that gradually collect in the kidneys. While small stones may pass unnoticed, larger ones can cause excruciating pain and complications if left untreated.
For anyone dealing with kidney stones, the pressing question is often, How long will it take to cure? The duration of kidney stones treatment depends on several factors, including the size, location, and severity of the stone, as well as the individual’s overall health.
In this article, we’ll explain how long kidney stone pain can last, the time required for treatment, and steps you can take to prevent them from coming back. Keep reading!
How Long Can Kidney Stone Pain Last?
The pain caused by kidney stones is often sharp, intense, and varies depending on the stone’s size and location. Small kidney stones, those less than 4 mm in size, typically cause pain for only a couple of days.
These stones can often pass through the urinary tract naturally without the need for treatment. Staying well-hydrated and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) can help manage discomfort during this period.
Medium-sized kidney stones, ranging from 4 to 6 mm, may take several days to a few weeks to pass. For patients with stones in this range, about half may require additional treatment, such as medication to relax the urinary tract or minimally invasive procedures to aid in stone removal.
Large stones, those larger than 6 mm, can cause persistent pain for weeks or longer if they do not pass on their own. These stones can also block the urinary tract, leading to severe symptoms such as nausea, fever, and even kidney damage.
These complications demand prompt medical attention to prevent further health risks. In fact, you should visit a doctor immediately for kidney stones treatment if you experience:
* A fever or chills, which could indicate an infection.
* Significant nausea or vomiting, making it hard to stay hydrated.
* Pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medication.
* A history of kidney problems, including having only one functioning kidney.
How Many Days Will It Take to Cure Kidney Stones?
The time it takes to fully cure kidney stones depends on the stone’s size and location within the urinary tract. Small kidney stones, those less than 4 mm in size, typically pass on their own within 1–2 weeks.
Staying well-hydrated and aiming for pale-colored urine can speed up this process. Pain can be managed by taking NSAIDs or using a heating pad to reduce discomfort.
Medium-sized stones, ranging from 4 to 6 mm, may take up to 45 days to pass. If these stones cause ongoing pain or block urine flow, your doctor may recommend medications to relax the urinary tract or a minimally invasive procedure like extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL).
This treatment uses sound waves to break the stone into smaller fragments so they can to pass more easily. Very large stones, those greater than 6 mm, are unlikely to pass on their own.
They can take several months or even a year to resolve without treatment. Surgery is often necessary to remove these stones.
Common surgical options include ureteroscopy, where a small scope is used to locate and remove the stone, percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), which involves a small back incision to remove the stone directly from the kidney, and, in rare cases, open surgery. These procedures ensure the stone is completely removed and prevent further complications.
If the stone hasn’t passed within 4–6 weeks, or if it causes complications like infection or bleeding, please inform your doctor. Early intervention can prevent long-term damage to the kidneys or urinary tract.
How Do You Stop Kidney Stones from Coming Back?
Preventing kidney stones is often easier than treating them, and making targeted lifestyle and dietary changes can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence. Here are the most effective strategies to keep kidney stones at bay:
* Drink Enough Fluids: Hydration is vital in preventing kidney stones. Aim to drink enough water to produce at least 2 liters of urine each day, with clear or pale-yellow urine as a good indicator of proper hydration. Adding citrus juices like lemonade, which contain citrate (a natural compound that prevents stone formation), can further reduce the risk. On the other hand, sugary, caffeinated, or fizzy drinks should be avoided, as they can lead to dehydration and promote the formation of stones.
* Reduce Sodium Intake: A high-sodium diet increases calcium in the urine, making kidney stones more likely. To lower your risk, limit your intake of processed foods and opt for low-sodium alternatives. A diet lower in salt reduces the amount of calcium excreted in urine, thereby minimizing the risk of stone formation.
* Get Enough Calcium: While it may seem counterintuitive, dietary calcium can actually help prevent kidney stones by binding to oxalates in the digestive tract and reducing their absorption. However, avoid calcium supplements, as they can increase the risk of forming stones. Instead, focus on obtaining calcium from foods like dairy products and leafy greens.
* Eat More Fruits and Vegetables: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables lowers the likelihood of kidney stone formation by maintaining a healthy urine pH. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Foods high in magnesium, such as spinach and nuts, are also beneficial, as magnesium can counteract the effects of stone formation. Speaking of fruits and vegetables, if you are prone to calcium oxalate stones, reduce your intake of foods such as spinach, beets, nuts, and chocolate. Pair these foods with calcium-rich alternatives to minimize the amount of oxalate absorbed by the body.
* Reduce Animal Protein: Excessive intake of animal proteins like red meat, poultry, or fish can raise uric acid levels in your body, which can lead to certain types of kidney stones. Consider incorporating plant-based protein sources into your diet as an alternative. On the same note, obesity and rapid weight loss are significant risk factors for kidney stones. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity can support a healthy weight and reduce your chances of developing stones.
Wrapping Up
The time it takes to cure kidney stones depends largely on the size and location of the stone, as well as your overall health and the treatment approach. Small stones can pass within days, while larger ones may take weeks or months to resolve. In some cases, surgical intervention is necessary for complete relief.