Frequently Asked Questions about Kidney Stone Treatment

Kidney stones are a common, and very painful problem. Fortunately, your urologist can help. Dr. Jonathan Masel at Masel Urology Center in Hollywood, FL provides comprehensive urology services including kidney stone treatment.

If you are wondering if you have a kidney stone, you need to know the facts. These are just a few frequently asked questions and answers from your urologist:

What Is a Kidney Stone?

A kidney stone is a mass that forms from the clumping of minerals and other substances in your urine.

What are the signs and symptoms of a kidney stone?

The most obvious symptom of a kidney stone is pain, which can be severe. The pain may occur on your side, back, or abdomen. Other signs and symptoms include:

• Blood in your urine
• Pain when you urinate
• A feeling of having to urinate often
• A fever, nausea, and vomiting

Do I need to seek treatment for a small kidney stone?

Not necessarily. Small kidney stones may pass naturally, through your urine.

When should I visit a urologist?

If you experience any of the signs and symptoms listed above, it’s important to visit your urologist. Larger kidney stones can be excruciatingly painful and debilitating.

How can a urologist treat a kidney stone?

Larger kidney stones are often treated with a procedure known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy, also known as ESWL. This kidney stone treatment uses shock waves to break up the kidney stone into smaller pieces. The smaller pieces can pass naturally through your urine.

What can I expect during ESWL?

ESWL is typically performed on an outpatient basis, under IV sedation. It’s important to bring someone with you who can drive you home after your procedure. After treatment, small pieces of the kidney stone will pass within a few weeks.

Want To Know More?

To learn more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of kidney stones and how your urologist can help, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Jonathan Masel of Masel Urology Center in Hollywood, FL at (954) 961-7500. Call today.