Can leaving kidney stones untreated for a long time lead to death?

Whether a patient with kidney stones will die if they are not treated for a long time depends on specific conditions. If the patient's condition is relatively mild and effective treatment is promptly carried out, it is generally unlikely to lead to death. However, if the patient's condition is severe and no active and effective treatment is performed, it may lead to death. For small asymptomatic kidney stones, no special treatment is usually required, and regular check-ups are sufficient. For kidney stones with a diameter greater than 0.6cm, obvious clinical symptoms, or combined with urinary tract infection, the doctor's instructions should be followed for medication to remove stones, such as Potassium Sodium Hydrogen Citrate Granules. Meanwhile, dietary adjustment is also needed, avoiding foods high in calcium, such as milk and tofu, to prevent worsening of the condition. Additionally, proper exercise can be performed to promote the excretion of stones. In daily life, maintaining a good mindset and avoiding excessive emotional excitement are beneficial for disease recovery.

If the patient's condition is severe, manifesting in symptoms such as severe kidney pain and hematuria, and they do not actively cooperate with the doctor for treatment, it may lead to further development of the condition, affecting physical health and even endangering life. Therefore, it is recommended that patients promptly visit a reputable hospital and undergo surgical treatment under the guidance of a doctor, such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Additionally, it is recommended that patients rest adequately, ensuring sufficient sleep time, avoiding staying up late and overexertion. Personal hygiene should also be taken seriously, with frequent changes of underwear to prevent infection.