Understanding Ureteral Stones: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Ureteral stones are formed when crystals, minerals, and salts in the urine accumulate and become lodged in the ureter, the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder. Each kidney typically has one ureter, which carries urine to the bladder before it is expelled from the body.

Ureteral stones can vary in size, ranging from very small stones to larger ones that may obstruct urine flow. Small stones may sometimes pass naturally during urination without causing significant symptoms. However, the larger the stone, the less likely it is to pass on its own and the greater the risk of symptoms such as severe pain in the flank or back, nausea, and vomiting.

If a ureteral stone causes an obstruction, it can disrupt urine flow and lead to complications if not treated appropriately. Therefore, a medical examination is necessary to determine the stone’s size and location and identify the most suitable treatment.

Contents

Types of Ureteral Stones

Ureteral stones can be classified according to the minerals and substances they contain. Identifying the type of stone can help doctors determine appropriate treatment and identify factors that increase the risk of stone formation. The following are some common types of ureteral stones.

1. Calcium Stones

Calcium stones are the most common type of urinary tract stone. They consist of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate, which can accumulate and form crystals in the urine.

2. Uric Acid Stones

Uric acid stones form when the uric acid concentration in the urine becomes too high, causing the substance to precipitate and form crystals. As these crystals continue to accumulate, stones may develop and become lodged in the ureter.

3. Struvite Stones

Struvite stones may develop following certain urinary tract infections. They generally consist of magnesium ammonium phosphate (struvite) and calcium carbonate apatite. These stones require attention because they can grow larger and obstruct the urinary tract.

4. Cystine Stones

Cystine stones are relatively rare and are associated with a genetic condition called cystinuria. This condition causes the kidneys to release the amino acid cystine into the urine. When cystine concentrations become too high, crystals can form and eventually develop into stones.

Ureteral Stone Symptoms to Watch Out For

Symptoms of ureteral stones can vary depending on the size of the stone and whether it obstructs urine flow. When a stone becomes lodged and causes a blockage, the patient may experience pain or difficulty urinating. The following are some symptoms of ureteral stones to watch out for:

A burning sensation during urination, which may be accompanied by discomfort in the urinary tract.
Cramping in the lower abdomen that may extend to the groin, causing pain and interfering with daily activities.
Severe pain during urination, particularly when the stone irritates the urinary tract.
Fever, which may indicate a urinary tract infection, especially when accompanied by an obstruction.
Increased urinary frequency, resulting in a more frequent urge to urinate than usual.
Difficulty urinating or an inability to urinate, which may occur when urine flow is obstructed.
Pink or reddish urine due to blood in the urine (hematuria).

If you experience severe pain, fever or chills, or an inability to urinate, seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition requiring urgent treatment, particularly when a ureteral stone is accompanied by an infection or urinary tract obstruction.

Causes and Risk Factors of Ureteral Stones

Ureteral stones develop when stone-forming substances, such as minerals and salts, become concentrated in the urine and form crystals. This is more likely to occur when the body lacks sufficient fluids, causing the urine to become more concentrated. Conversely, drinking enough water can help dilute these substances and reduce the risk of stone formation.

Anyone can develop ureteral stones. However, several factors may increase the risk:

Being male, although women and children can also develop ureteral stones.
Being between 40 and 60 years old.
Having a history of kidney stones.
Having a family history of kidney stones.
Not drinking enough water or losing significant amounts of fluid through sweating.
Having type 2 diabetes.
Having a body mass index (BMI) above 30.
Having conditions that cause chronic diarrhea, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
Having polycystic kidney disease.

These factors do not always lead to ureteral stones, but they can increase the likelihood of developing them. Maintaining adequate fluid intake and managing underlying health conditions can help reduce the risk.

Treatment for Ureteral Stones

Treatment for ureteral stones depends on the size, location, and composition of the stone. Small stones may sometimes pass naturally through the urine within a few weeks. During this process, doctors may prescribe medication to relieve pain and nausea.

If a stone is large or causes a urinary tract obstruction, a urologist may recommend one of the following procedures:

Shock wave lithotripsy: Uses shock waves to break the stone into smaller fragments that can pass more easily through the urine.
Ureteroscopy: A thin, flexible instrument with a camera is inserted through the urinary tract to locate the stone, break it up using a laser, or remove it.
PCNL (percutaneous nephrolithotomy): Removes stones through a small incision in the back to access the kidney. This procedure is generally used to treat large kidney stones.
Ureteral stent placement: A thin, flexible tube is inserted into the ureter to keep it open, allowing urine to flow past the obstructed area. This procedure may be used in emergencies to help relieve an obstruction.

The doctor will determine the most appropriate method based on the examination results and the patient’s condition. If a ureteral stone causes a severe obstruction or is accompanied by an infection, prompt treatment is necessary to reduce the risk of kidney damage and other complications.

Facilities for Out-of-Town and International Patients at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital

Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital provides a range of supporting facilities to enhance the comfort of patients traveling from other cities or overseas.

VIP Transportation: A pickup service from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, train stations, or seaports to the hospital using comfortable vehicles, accompanied by a Patient Experience Officer (PEO).
Medical Ambulance Pickup: A dedicated pickup service for patients with specific medical needs from arrival points, including airports, train stations, and seaports. The service includes medical equipment and assistance from professional healthcare personnel.
Accommodation (Sleep Hub and Apartments): Comfortable accommodation for families accompanying patients, including facilities located on the eighth floor of the Mandaya Royal Puri building and nearby apartment options.
International Patient Relations: Dedicated assistance for international patients with medical coordination, interpreter services, and administrative arrangements. For information and assistance from International Patient Relations, contact 021 5092 8888 or email [email protected].

To make your visit to Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital more convenient, use the WhatsApp Chat feature, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter application, which is available for download on Google Play and the App Store. These services can help you arrange appointments, check your queue number, and access other useful information.

The information provided on this page is intended for educational purposes and offers a general overview. It does not cover every type of medical service that each doctor may provide. To determine the most appropriate treatment for your health condition, you are advised to consult the relevant doctor directly.

If you have any questions, suggestions, or need further information, please contact our call center at 0811-1900-2000.