Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Treatment. Treatment for kidney stones varies, depending on the type of stone and the cause. Small stones with minimal symptoms. Most small kidney stones won't require invasive treatment. You may be able to pass a small stone by: Drinking water.
Kidney stones (also called renal calculi, nephrolithiasis or urolithiasis) are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Diet, excess body weight, some medical conditions, and certain supplements and medications are among the many causes of kidney stones.
Mayo Clinic uses the latest technology to treat kidney stones, including minimally invasive techniques performed using small incisions or natural openings. Mayo urologists have extensive experience in performing percutaneous nephrolithotomy — a surgical procedure to remove large kidney stones.
Often, though, chronic kidney disease has no cure. Treatment usually consists of measures to help control signs and symptoms, reduce complications, and slow progression of the disease. If your kidneys become severely damaged, you might need treatment for end-stage kidney disease.
You may reduce your risk of kidney stones if you: Drink water throughout the day. People with a history of kidney stones should drink enough fluids to pass about 80 oz (2.5 liters) of urine every day. This is the most effective therapy available to prevent future kidney stones.
A kidney infection needs prompt medical treatment. If not treated properly, an infection can cause lasting damage to the kidneys. Or the bacteria can spread to the bloodstream and cause a dangerous infection.
Treatment options for gallstones include: Surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). Your doctor may recommend surgery to remove your gallbladder, since gallstones frequently recur.
Antibiotics are the first line of treatment for kidney infections. The drugs used and the length of time of the treatment depend on your health and the bacteria found in your urine tests. Symptoms of a kidney infection often begin to clear up within a few days of treatment.
The good news is kidney stones are preventable, and prevention can be as simple as eating the right foods. “The most important thing to think about with kidney stones is prevention,” says Dr. Ivan Porter II, a Mayo Clinic nephrologist.
Mayo Clinic urologists and nephrologists conduct clinical trials to help evaluate and refine new technologies. Their depth of expertise makes Mayo Clinic a leader in clinical research on what causes kidney stones to form, how best to diagnose them, cutting-edge treatment options and prevention.