Top 5 Kidney Stone Treatment Methods Recommended by Doctors

Kidney stones are small, hard mineral deposits that form inside the kidneys and can cause intense pain, discomfort, and urinary issues. Timely diagnosis and the right treatment are crucial to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. As a leading Urologist in Jaipur, Dr. Saurabh Jain emphasises the importance of choosing the right treatment based on the size, location, and type of stone.

Here are the Top 5 Kidney Stone Treatment Methods Recommended by Doctors:

1. Increased Fluid Intake and Dietary Changes (For Small Stones)

For kidney stones that are small in size (less than 5mm), doctors often recommend increasing water intake to help flush out the stones naturally through urine. Drinking at least 2.5 to 3 litres of water daily can be very effective. Along with hydration, dietary changes—like reducing salt, oxalate-rich foods, and animal protein—can prevent stone formation and support natural passage.

2. Medical Expulsive Therapy (MET)

Medical Expulsive Therapy involves the use of specific medications such as alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin) that relax the muscles in the ureter, helping the stone to pass more easily. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs are also prescribed to manage symptoms during the stone’s passage.

3. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

ESWL is a non-invasive treatment where shock waves are used to break the kidney stones into smaller fragments that can be passed through urine. The procedure is performed under local or light anaesthesia and is ideal for patients who prefer non-surgical options.

Advantages:

• No cuts or stitches
• Minimal hospital stay
• Quick recovery
  

4. Ureteroscopy (URS)

Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure where a thin tube called a ureteroscope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter to locate and remove or break the stone using a laser. This treatment doesn’t require any incisions and is commonly used for mid-to-lower ureteric stones.

Benefits:

• High success rate
• Effective for both diagnosis and treatment
• Short hospital stay

5. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)

PCNL is recommended for large or complex kidney stones (greater than 2 cm), including staghorn calculi. In this surgical procedure, a small incision is made in the back to allow direct access to the kidney for stone removal. It is considered the most effective treatment for large or multiple stones.

Highlights:

• Direct access for complete stone clearance
• Performed under general anaesthesia
• Short hospital stay and quick recovery
  

Choosing the Right Treatment

Not every patient requires surgery. The right kidney stone treatment depends on multiple factors:

• Size and location of the stone
• Composition of the stone
• Patient’s overall health and medical history
• Presence of infection or kidney obstruction
  

Dr. Saurabh Jain provides personalised treatment plans using the latest diagnostic and surgical techniques to ensure safe and effective stone removal. With modern facilities and expert care, he is known for offering the Best Kidney Stone Treatment in Jaipur.

Final Words

Kidney stones can be painful, but they are treatable with timely medical intervention. Whether your condition requires medication, lifestyle adjustments, or a surgical procedure, early consultation with a specialist makes all the difference. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of kidney stones, don’t delay—get evaluated by a qualified urologist.