When substances like uric acid solidify within the urinary canal, kidney stones can result. These substances, which include calcium and uric acid, are always present in trace amounts. One of the most stressful things your body may go through is passing a kidney stone. Larger stones may become lodged in the ureter and cause the symptoms listed above, while smaller stones can normally pass naturally. In this write-up, we will discuss how long does it take to pass a kidney stone and treatment options.
How Long Does It Take To Pass a Kidney Stone?
Kidney stones can cause excruciating pain when passing through the urinary tract. If you’ve been diagnosed with a stone, you’re probably wondering – how long does it take to pass a kidney stone? There are several factors that influence the time it takes to pass a stone. They are-
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Stone Size
Stone size is one of the most important determinants of how long it will take to pass. The larger the stone, the longer it will likely take to make its way out. Very small stones of 2 mm or less may pass in just a few days. However, larger stones over 5 mm may take upwards of 4-6 weeks to work their way out. Stones larger than 10 mm have a very low probability of passing spontaneously and often require active stone removal procedures.
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Location of the Stone
Where the stone gets lodged also affects how quickly it can exit the body. Stones that are still up higher in the kidney tend to take longer to descend into the narrow ureters. Once in the ureters, the muscular contractions help move the stone along into the bladder. Stones that reach the ureterovesical junction right before the bladder tend to pass within a shorter duration, such as 7-10 days.
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Stone Composition
The composition of stones can impact how long does it take to pass a kidney stone. The mineral composition and smoothness of the stone also play a role. Calcium stones that are rough with jagged edges may take longer to pass since they can snag along the lining of the ureters. Smooth stones like uric acid stones tend to pass more quickly.
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Gender and Age
Younger people and males tend to have wider ureters, allowing stones to pass more quickly in just a few days. Older females tend to have slower passage times, likely due to narrower anatomy. Hormonal changes in women may also impact ureteral contractions.
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Medication
Certain medications can help facilitate stone passage by relaxing ureter muscles or improving fluid flow. Alpha blockers like tamsulosin help relax the ureter while pain relievers reduce discomfort. These can shorten the duration of symptomatic stone episodes.
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Stone History
Stone history is another important factor that significantly impact how long does it take to pass a kidney stone. Those with a history of previous kidney stones may drink more fluids, which helps reduce passage time. Staying well hydrated is key to flushing out stones more quickly.
Treatment Options
Now that you know how long does it take to pass a kidney stone, let’s have a look at the treatment options :
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Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy
This noninvasive procedure uses focused sound waves to break up stones into smaller fragments that can pass more easily. The patient lies on a table while a machine directs sound waves to precisely target the stone during 10-20 minute sessionsMinimal anaesthesia is needed and patients can go home the same day. It is best suited for stones up to 2 cm located in the kidney.
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Ureteroscopy
This invasive procedure uses a small fiberoptic instrument called a ureteroscope to locate and remove stones. General or spinal anaesthesia is administered before inserting the tool into the urethra up to the ureter. This procedure is useful for stones of any size and location, including lower ureter stones not reachable with lithotripsy.
In this process, stones may be directly extracted or broken up with laser lithotripsy before removal.
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Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
In this surgery, the urologist makes a small incision in the patient’s back to access larger kidney stones directly. The patient receives general anaesthesia and lies face down during the procedure. An instrument called a nephroscope is inserted through the incision directly into the kidney. Large stones are extracted or broken up into fragments. This is the most invasive option reserved for very large stones.
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Dissolution Therapy
Certain medications can help dissolve specific types of stones over time, allowing gradual passage. Uric acid stones may be dissolved with alkalinizing agents that raise urine pH. Cystine stones also respond to drug therapy. Dissolution happens slowly, taking several months for significant stone clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What causes kidney stones?
A: Kidney stones form when certain minerals become concentrated enough in the urine to crystallise and stick together. High levels of calcium, uric acid, and oxalate are common culprits.
Q: What are the symptoms of kidney stones?
A: Severe pain in the back, abdomen, or groyne is the most common kidney stone symptom.
Q: How are kidney stones diagnosed?
A: Diagnosis involves a medical history, physical exam, diagnostic imaging tests like CT scans or ultrasounds, and urine testing to identify the stone type.
Q: What food and drinks should I avoid with kidney stones?
A: Limiting sodium, oxalate-rich foods like spinach, animal protein, sugary drinks, and alcohol may help prevent stone formation and recurrence.
Q: When do kidney stones require surgery?
A: Large stones over 6-10 mm are unlikely to pass on their own and may require surgeries.
Q: Can kidney stones cause permanent damage?
A: If left untreated, large stones can eventually cause urinary tract infections, kidney damage or failure in severe cases.
Overview
Knowing how long does it take to pass a kidney stone is crucial for properly managing this condition. While small stones may pass within a few weeks with conservative treatment, larger stones can take over a month. Severe, unrelenting pain, fever, vomiting or signs of infection warrant immediate medical attention, even for smaller stones. Monitoring a stone’s progress and getting an accurate timeline from your doctor ensures appropriate care while avoiding unnecessary interventions.