When Kidney Stones Require a Doctor’s Visit

Kidney stones are mineralized, hardened deposits that can form anywhere along the proximal urinary tract, meaning the part closest to the bladder and kidneys.

If you’ve seen depictions in the media or heard first-hand accounts, the pain of passing a kidney stone might be what you most commonly associate with them. Though kidney stones can be painful, they can most often be passed from the comfort of your home by staying well-hydrated and taking over-the-counter medications to manage the pain.

However, sometimes, going to the doctor for kidney stones is necessary. Learn when to go now.

How Much Pain Is Too Much Pain?

As the kidney stone travels through the urinary tract, you are expected to feel discomfort and pain. However, your pain will grow rapidly should the stone create a blockage.

Large stones that prevent or impede urine flow can cause incredible distress. You may feel radiating pain along with a pronounced ache in your midsection, lower back, and sides.

If your pain is accompanied by fever, chills, blood in the urine, or nausea and vomiting, go to the doctor.

Even though most kidney stones will need to be passed on your own, going to the doctor is recommended in case of any kidney stone, regardless of pain level.

What the Doctor Can Do for You

The doctor can help determine if the stone is passable on your own or if intervention is needed. Even if you must pass the stone on your own, the doctor can prescribe helpful medication to ease the process and diminish the pain. Alpha-blockers help relax the muscles in your ureter to make passing the stone easier.

The doctor will also determine the necessity of surgery, in the event a stone is too large to pass on your own.

The doctor may also conduct a metabolic examination to determine the cause of your kidney stone and help create a plan to avoid future kidney stone formations.

Find Kidney Stone Relief With Dr. Anand Shridharani

Kidney stones can be incredibly painful. Working with a board-certified doctor is a way to find relief and help prevent future instances.

Dr. Anand Shridharani is a board-certified doctor proudly serving Chattanooga and Knoxville, TN, as well as Northern Georgia and Huntsville, AL. Dr. Shridharani and his team strive to bring you the best value and care possible.

This is why they are proud to be able to offer a comprehensive treatment plan when it comes to kidney stones. From making sure you’re well equipped to passing the stone on your own to offering five different surgical interventions, should they be needed.

Contact Dr. Shridharani today by calling 423-778-4MEN (4636) to find relief from kidney stones.