A common disease found in Thai people is kidney stones (Kidney Stone), caused by the precipitation of minerals and chemicals in the urine such as calcium, urate, or oxalate accumulating to form stones. These stones are commonly found in the renal pelvis and urinary tract. The good news nowadays is that kidney stones can be treated without surgery using ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy) technology, which breaks stones using external shock waves. This technology uses high-frequency sound waves transmitted through the skin to break the stones into small pieces, allowing them to be safely passed out through the urine.
Causes of Kidney Stones
- Diseases in the urinary system – Overweight condition
- Drinking too little water – Complications from gout
- Diabetes – Eating foods high in protein / salt / sugar
- Drinking too little water or dehydration – Family history of kidney stones, etc.
Treatment Methods for Kidney Stones
- For very small stones, drinking plenty of water can help the stones pass naturally, or pain relievers or stone-expelling medications may be used concurrently.
- Using a lithotripsy machine (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy: ESWL)
- Ureteroscopy (endoscopic stone removal)
- Surgical treatment (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: PCNL)
The lithotripsy machine (ESWL) is a special device that uses high-frequency sound waves (Supersonic Speed) to break stones into powder or small pieces, which are then expelled from the body through the urinary system. Patients experience less pain compared to surgery, no complications, and do not need to stay in the hospital for a long time.
Preparation for Lithotripsy Treatment
- Eat easily digestible soft foods
- Get enough rest and sleep
- Attend treatment sessions continuously as scheduled
Post-Lithotripsy Care
- On the first day, pain may occur. Take the medication prescribed by the doctor to relieve symptoms. There may be red urine; rest and drink plenty of water. Symptoms should improve within 1-2 days.
- Avoid heavy work or exercise for 1-2 days
- Drink plenty of water, about 3-4 liters per day, to help flush out stone fragments faster
- After treatment, exercise regularly and observe if stone fragments pass with urine
Factors Affecting the Success of Kidney Stone Treatment
- Stone size: If the stone is larger than 2 cm or there are multiple stones, multiple treatments may be needed for success
- Stone hardness: If the stone is very hard, multiple treatments or higher energy levels may be required, which can increase pain
- Proper adherence to the doctor’s and nurse’s instructions
- Anatomical abnormalities of the urinary system or patients who have had kidney stone surgery or ureter surgery may prevent broken stones from passing, requiring the doctor to stop lithotripsy
Summary of Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are a common problem with many treatment options. One of these is lithotripsy using shock waves without surgery. There are also surgical treatments for stones that are too hard or large. For those who want to avoid kidney stones, prevention is simple by drinking plenty of water, monitoring symptoms, and consulting a doctor promptly if abnormal symptoms occur.
