minimum kidney stone size - #18998
I am really stressed about this whole kidney stone thing. Last week I was rushed to the ER with a lot of pain in my back and I thought it was just a bad strain, but turns out I have kidney stones. I got a CT scan and the doctors mentioned that they found a couple of stones, but I didn't get the full picture, you know? I overheard them say something about the minimum kidney stone size being small enough to pass on its own. But now I’m wondering, what’s that minimum kidney stone size really? Like, is it true that anything below 5mm can just smoothly move through? My doctor said something about possible treatments if they're bigger, but I'm really worried about underestimating this whole situation. I don't want to go through anything worse, and what if I don’t know the minimum kidney stone size needed to pass? I mean, should I be worried about these stones being stuck? I heard that if they don't cause pain or issues, it’s manageable, but now I'm just confused! Can anyone shed light on this minimum kidney stone size and how to handle it?
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Doctors' responses
When it comes to kidney stones, generally, the size really matters in determining if they’ll pass naturally. Stones that are below 5mm in diameter often pass on their own without requiring invasive treatment, though there can still be discomfort during the process. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s anatomy and stone composition differ, influencing how easily stones might pass. If your stones are indeed less than 5mm, it’s likely they’ll move without intervention, but there’s variation in individual experiences. This passing process often involves staying hydrated to help move the stones through your urinary tract. On the other hand, stones larger than 5mm may require more attention. They can sometimes become lodged and cause significant pain or even lead to complications like infection or kidney damage. Potential treatment options in those cases include extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL), which breaks stones into smaller pieces, or more invasive procedures if necessary. If you’re experiencing severe pain, fever, or difficulties urinating, it’s crucial to promptly seek medical advice, as these can be signs of more serious issues. Balancing pain management and monitoring symptoms while staying in touch with your healthcare provider is key. Managing stress around this is understandable, and getting a clear plan from your doctor about monitoring or possible treatments can help you feel more in control. Keeping an eye on any new symptoms and maintaining regular follow-ups is essential in managing the situation effectively.
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