"What Causes Urinary Tract Stones in the Ureter?"
Causes and Treatment of Ureteral Stones
The formation of ureteral stones shares similar causes with kidney stones, primarily attributed to metabolic abnormalities, medication factors, dietary habits, among others. Urinary tract infections can also contribute to the development of ureteral stones.
Etiology
- Metabolic Abnormalities: For instance, hyperparathyroidism can elevate blood calcium levels while reducing phosphates, leading to the precipitation of phosphate crystals and the subsequent formation of stones.
- Medication Factors: Prolonged administration of vitamin D or excessive calcium supplementation can create a high-calcium, low-phosphorus environment conducive to phosphate deposition, thereby inducing stone formation.
- Dietary Habits: Inadequate water intake and excessive intake of oxalic acid can both elevate the risk of ureteral stones, particularly among those who frequently consume spinach and animal viscera.
- Urinary Tract Infections: Conditions such as acute cystitis and chronic pyelonephritis, when recurrent, can irritate the kidneys to produce excess crystal substances, triggering ureteral stone formation.
Treatment
For small, asymptomatic ureteral stones, observation and ample water intake to facilitate excretion are initially recommended. If patients experience intolerable pain, analgesics prescribed by a physician should be administered to alleviate discomfort, and anti-infective treatment should be actively pursued. When necessary, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) or other methods can be employed to fragment and expel the stones. If conservative treatment fails, prompt surgical intervention is advised to prevent disease progression and maintain good health.
In daily life, fostering healthy habits, engaging in regular exercise to enhance immunity, adhering to a bland diet, avoiding spicy and irritating foods, and consuming plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables can help prevent the occurrence of this condition.
