Can Ureter Stone Damage Kidneys?

1. Can Ureter Stone Damage Kidneys? Not sure about ureter stone? You may have heard about kidney stones as they are the common ones to affect anyone. Just like that, a ureter stone is a kidney stone that has moved from the kidney into another part of the urinary tract. The ureter is the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder. It’s the same width as a small vein. It’s the most common location for a kidney stone to become lodged and lead to pain. The pain can vary depending on the size and location, and it may require medical intervention if it doesn’t pass, causing various health complications. So, if you are dealing with ureter stones and searching for a urologist to consult, you can end your research at Dr. Niren Rao at Delhi Urology Hospital. He is known as the best doctor for ureteric stone surgery in Delhi, and we have been conversing with him to develop this blog. So, let’s start to get a comprehensive knowledge of Ureter stones. What Are Ureter Stones? Ureter stones are clusters of crystals that usually develop in the kidneys. However, they are not limited to kidneys only; these masses can develop and move anywhere along your urinary tract, which includes the ureters, urethra, and bladder. This kidney stone is found inside a ureter (tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder). These stones are mostly small and can pass through your ureter into your bladder and eventually pass out of your body when you urinate. However, when they appear big, they get stuck in the ureter, blocking the flow of urine and leading to extreme pain. Ureter Stone Symptoms The most common symptom of ureter stone to get noticed is pain, while other can include: • Fever • Nausea and vomiting • Blood in urine • Frequent urge to urinate

2. • Experiencing pain or burning sensation when you pee • Pain in your lower abdomen or your flank Causes of Ureter Stones These stones are made up of crystals in your urine that clump together. They usually form in the kidneys before passing into the ureter. However, not all stones have the same type of crystals. They can be created of different kinds of crystals, such as: • Calcium: Stones made up of calcium are too common to find. Being dehydrated and eating a diet with a lot of high-oxalate foods can increase the risk of developing stones. • Uric Acid: is common in men and people with gout when your urine becomes too acidic. • Struvite: These stones are often associated with chronic kidney infections and are found in women with urinary tractinfections (UTIs). • Cystine: This is the least common type of stone affecting people with the genetic disorder cystinuria. Besides the above-listed points, other risk factors can lead to ureter stones, and they are: • Family history • Dehydration • Poor diet • Certain medications • Medical conditions such as gout, obesity, blockage of the urinary tract, inflammatory bowel disease, Hyperparathyroidism, and Recurrent UTIs Does Ureter Stone Damage Kidneys? These stones can damage your kidneys as the ureters are those muscular tubes that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder. When a kidney stone gets stuck in the ureter, it obstructs the normal flow of urine, causing health issues such as: • Kidney infections (Pyelonephritis): Troubled urine flow leads to an environment where bacteria can thrive, causing kidney infections. And recurrent infections can contribute to kidney damage. • Backflow of urine (Hydronephrosis): A kidney stone blocking your ureter can cause urine to back up into the kidneys, a condition known as hydronephrosis. This can cause pressure between the kidneys and lead to damage over time. • Impaired kidney function: Prolonged obstruction and constant pressure can affect the kidney’s function and, in severe cases, lead to kidney failure. If you experience any sign of ureter stone, it is high time you start planning for ureteric stone surgery. What Does Ureteric Stone Surgery Cost in Delhi? The ureteric stone surgery cost in Delhi can vary from one person to another, depending on their health condition. The approximate price range varies between Rs 30,000 to Rs. 50,000. Advantages of Ureteric Stone Surgery • Patients experience less post-operative pain • You can expect less bleeding as the laser is used to fragment the stone

3. • It can be performed on a short stay or daycare procedure • It is a less-invasive surgery performed with the help of a long and thin endoscope called a ureter scope Tips To Reduce The Risk of Forming Another Ureteric Stone You can follow these natural ways to avoid the risk of developing another kidney stone: • Stay hydrated • Increase your citric acid intake • Limit foods high in oxalates • Avoid taking high doses of vitamin C • Get enough calcium • Reduce salt intake • Limit your magnesium intake and eat less animal protein Final Words If you ever had a ureteric stone, chances are high that you will develop one another in 5-10 years. However, taking precautions, going for the treatment, and consulting with the doctor can help you overcome the risk factors. If you are looking for the best urology hospital in Delhi, you can consult Dr. Niren Rao at Delhi Urology Hospital. With over two decades of experience, he treats every patient with care and provides successful treatment.