Is a 3mm Kidney Stone Serious?
Severity of 3mm Kidney Stones: A Case-by-Case Assessment
The severity of a 3mm kidney stone depends on specific circumstances. If it is a simple kidney stone, it is generally not severe; however, if accompanied by complications such as infection or obstruction, it can be more serious.
Not Severe
1. Simple Kidney Stone: For patients with small, asymptomatic kidney stones, special treatment is typically not required. Drinking plenty of water and engaging in moderate exercise can aid in the expulsion of these small stones naturally. In this scenario, the kidney stone is not considered severe.
Severe
1. Infection: When kidney stones cause urinary obstruction, they can lead to ascending infections, manifesting as fever, lumbar pain, and other symptoms. This is a more severe condition. Patients are advised to follow their doctor's instructions and take antibiotics, such as Cefixime Capsules or Amoxicillin Capsules, for anti-infective treatment. If necessary, surgical intervention may be considered to remove the stones.
2. Obstruction: If a kidney stone is located within the ureter, it can cause narrowing or complete obstruction of the ureter, triggering acute renal colic, which is usually severe. Patients can use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen Sustained-Release Tablets or Diclofenac Sodium Enteric-coated Tablets under medical supervision to alleviate pain. Additionally, treatments like extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) may be performed.
Furthermore, maintaining a healthy diet rich in light and easily digestible foods, such as millet porridge and pumpkin porridge, is recommended in daily life.