Kidney stones are a common condition, occurring when minerals and salt crystallize into solid blocks in the kidneys or urinary tract. The disease can cause severe pain, especially when stones move in the urethra.
According to Dr. Nitin Shrivastava - leading consultant in Urology at Manipal Hospital, Gurugram (India), kidney stones can self-excrete in some cases, especially when they are small in size. Stones under 5mm are quite likely to self-excrete if monitored and supported properly. However, not all can self-excrete without medical intervention.
Kidney stones form when urine contains more substances such as calcium, oxalate, or uric acid than soluble. Dehydration, salt intake, or metabolic disorders are factors that increase the risk of stone formation.
The process of removing stones takes place when the stones move from the kidneys down to the urethra, then into the bladder and finally out through the urethra. The stage when stones pass through the urethra is usually the most painful, with cramps in the back or hips. When stones descend into the bladder, symptoms usually subside but can cause a constant feeling of urinary retention.
Self-excretion ability mainly depends on size. Stones under 4mm have about 80% chance of self-excretion. With stones from 4–6mm, this rate is reduced to about 50%. Meanwhile, stones larger than 6mm are very difficult to self-excrete and often require medical intervention.
In addition to size, the location of the stones is also very important. Stones located near the bladder are easier to remove than stones located high in the kidneys. The composition of the stones also affects this process, in which uric acid stones can be supported to dissolve with medication.
Patients can support natural excretion by drinking enough water (2–3 liters per day), increasing foods rich in citrate such as lemon, reducing salt, and maintaining light exercise. In some cases, doctors may prescribe medication to help dilate the ureter so that stones are easier to discharge.
However, do not be subjective. If signs such as fever, chills, severe pain that does not subside, frequent urination with blood or inability to urinate appear, patients need to see a doctor immediately. This may be a sign of obstruction or serious infection.
If not treated promptly, kidney stones can cause dangerous complications such as hydronephrosis, infection, and even kidney failure. Therefore, proper monitoring and treatment is very important.
In summary, small kidney stones can self-excrete, but this possibility depends on many factors. Patients should see a doctor and follow their instructions to ensure safety.
