Kidney Stone Removal with Stent –When kidney stones are too big to pass on their own, or they are causing enough pain and blockage, a doctor may consider you for a procedure, as well as placing a stent to facilitate urination and give the body time to heal.
A stent is a thin, flexible tube that runs between the kidney and the bladder and helps urine flow while the body repairs. Although this is a normal and effective way clinics deal with kidney stones, many patients experience discomfort or confusion during the process. Knowing more about what your stent does and what you can do to take care of yourself during this time will help you recover quickly and keep you safe.
Kidney Stone Removal with Stent – Why It Is Done
Kidney Stone Removal with Stent – A stent is generally placed after a kidney stone extraction to keep the urinary pathway open until healing has occurred. There are several reasons that the doctor may have placed a stent:
- The stones were too large or jagged to pass on their own
- There was swelling or blockage in the ureter after surgery
- Preventing urine from backing up into the kidney
- Allowing urine to flow while tissues heal
- Making sure that drainage is occurring after a laser or shockwave procedure
- A stent is usually temporary and removed in a matter of days to possibly weeks, depending on recovery.
Kidney Stone Removal with Stent – What to Expect After the Procedure
Once you’ve undergone surgery with stenting, you may experience some signs and symptoms. These symptoms are normal and usually temporary:
- Frequent urge to urinate;
- Mild to moderate pain with urination;
- Blood in the urine (light pink or red);
- Pressure or discomfort in the lower abdomen or back;
- Bladder spasms on occasion.
Your doctor may prescribe medicines for pain and to relax bladder muscles. It is also important to drink lots of water to flush the urinary tract.
Tips for Comfort and Healing at Home
The recovery process while having a stent can be uncomfortable, but taking some simple actions can help reduce that discomfort:
- Drink 2.5 to 3 litres of clean water each day to keep your urine diluted.
- Avoid caffeine, spicy foods and alcohol.
- Take all medications prescribed by your doctor exactly as instructed, including medications for pain or for spasms (antispasmodics).
- When you urinate, make sure your bladder is completely empty.
- Use a hot water bag on your lower back if cramping occurs.
- Avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise.
All of these measures will help decrease the likelihood of irritation around the stent and help you heal faster.
Kidney Stone Removal with Stent – Managing Pain Naturally
Kidney Stone Removal with Stent Along with medicines, some natural remedies may provide comfort, such as:
- Drink barley water or coconut water daily to soothe the urinary tract
- Add a pinch of turmeric to warm milk for the anti-inflammatory properties
- Practice deep breathing and light stretches to alleviate muscle tension
- Eat potassium-rich food like bananas and coconut
These home remedies may decrease inflammation and relieve the symptoms from the stent in the urinary tract.
When Will the Stent Be Removed?
In most cases, the stent is removed between 7-14 days, depending on the size of the stone and how your body is healing. Some patients may need it longer. Stent removal is a minor outpatient procedure and usually requires no anaesthesia. You may feel mild discomfort during the removal, but it only lasts a few seconds.
When to Call the Doctor
Kidney Stone Removal with Stent Though mild discomfort is to be expected, call your doctor or your health professional if you experience any of the following:
- Severe pain or relentless pain despite taking pain analgesics
- Rise in fever with chills and/or nausea
- If you have difficulty passing urine, or blockage
- If bleeding is heavy in your urine
- If you have symptoms of infection or cloudy, foul smelling urine
Take prompt action to avoid complications and support a more successful recovery.
Conclusion
Kidney stones are often removed via stent. It’s a straightforward and safe procedure to protect your urinary tract as it heals. Even though the stent can cause temporary discomfort, being hydrated, following the doctor’s recommendations, and using natural remedies can make the recovery period a little less painful. It’s most important to know what to expect and when to seek help, so that you can heal well, and comfortably return to your normal life, in a timely manner.
