urine stone treatment - #18185
I am really worried about something that's been going on with me for the past few weeks. I've been having these crazy pains in my lower back and, honestly, it feels like I've been run over by a truck. I even went to the ER, and after all those tests, they said I have a urine stone. They explained the whole thing about urine stones but then left me kind of hanging when it came to what comes next. They didn’t give me a clear path on proper urine stone treatment. I mean, I get that drinking water is super important and all that, but what else do I need to focus on? Is there a specific diet I should be following for urine stone treatment or certain foods I should avoid? I tried looking stuff up on my phone, but there’s just too much conflicting info. Some say surgery is the way to go, while others mention medication. I guess I'm just trying to understand what urine stone treatment is right for me. Can anyone share their experiences? I really wanna get this sorted out because, honestly, it’s driving me nuts just waiting for the next episode!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Dealing with a urine stone can indeed be distressing, given the pain and uncertainty involved. Based on modern clinical practice, treatment generally hinges on the size and location of the stone, as well as any underlying health issues you might have. Hydration is rightly emphasized because drinking enough water—aim for 2-3 liters a day—helps diluting your urine and reducing the risk of stone formation. As for diet, it can be a bit nuanced depending on the stone composition, which generally falls under calcium oxalate, uric acid, or another less common types. If it’s a calcium oxalate stone, it makes sense to limit foods high in oxalates such as spinach, beets, and nuts; yet don’t cut calcium abruptly, as this can actually increase stone risk. For uric acid stones, a diet low in purines could be beneficial, so consider reducing intake of red meats and certain seafood.
Medication might be prescribed to help pass the stone or prevent new ones, such as alpha-blockers that relax the muscles in your ureters, or even medications that alter urine composition to make it less conducive for stone formation. Surgery or medical procedures, like shock wave lithotripsy, are generally considered if the stone is too large to pass on its own or is causing serious complications. Regular follow-ups are crucial, because they help monitor stone progression and adjust treatment as needed. It’s a good idea to consult a urologist who can personalize your treatment plan based on your specific needs and stone type. Avoid self-managing through online information alone, because it often lacks context and could lead to inappropriate conclusions. Make sure to address any sudden increase in pain, fever, or urinary infection symptoms as these might need immediate attention.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.