All You Need to Know About Kidney Stones Treatment in India: A Comprehensive Guide

Kidney stones are a common ailment affecting a large number of people worldwide. In India, the incidence of kidney stones is relatively high, owing to various factors such as a high-protein diet, inadequate fluid intake, and genetic predisposition. Kidney stones can cause severe pain, discomfort, and may even lead to complications if left untreated. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss all you need to know about kidney stones treatment in India.

Types of Kidney Stones

There are four types of kidney stones, each having a unique composition. The types of kidney stones are:

Calcium stones: Calcium stones are the most common type of kidney stones, accounting for about 80% of cases. They are made of calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, or a combination of both.

Uric acid stones: Uric acid stones are formed when there is excess uric acid in the urine. They are more common in people who have gout or a high-purine diet.

Struvite stones: Struvite stones are formed due to bacterial infections in the urinary tract. They are more common in women than men.

Cystine stones: Cystine stones are rare and are formed due to a genetic disorder that causes excess cystine in the urine.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

The symptoms of kidney stones include:

• Severe pain in the back or side
• Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty urinating
• Blood in the urine
• Fever and chills (in cases of infection)

Treatment Options

There are several treatment options for kidney stones in India. The choice of treatment depends on the size and location of the stone, as well as the severity of the symptoms. The treatment options include:

• Watchful waiting: Small kidney stones (less than 5mm in size) may pass through the urinary tract on their own. In such cases, doctors may prescribe pain medications and advise the patient to drink plenty of water to help flush out the stone.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as alpha-blockers, can help relax the muscles in the ureter, making it easier for the stone to pass. Pain medications may also be prescribed to manage the symptoms.
• Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): ESWL is a non-invasive procedure that uses shock waves to break up the stone into smaller pieces that can be passed through the urine. This procedure is usually recommended for stones that are less than 2cm in size.
• Ureteroscopy: Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the urethra and bladder to locate and remove the stone. This procedure is usually recommended for stones that are larger than 2cm in size.
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL): PCNL is a surgical procedure that involves making a small incision in the back to access the kidney and remove the stone. This procedure is usually recommended for stones that are larger than 2cm in size or are located in a difficult-to-reach area.

Cost of Treatment

The cost of kidney stones treatment in India varies depending on the type of treatment and the hospital or clinic where it is performed. Watchful waiting and medication-based treatments are relatively affordable, with costs ranging from Rs.2,000 to Rs.10,000. ESWL can cost between Rs.20,000 to Rs.50,000, while ureteroscopy and PCNL can cost between Rs.50,000 to Rs.1,50,000.

Top Hospitals for Kidney Stones Treatment in India

India is home to several top-notch hospitals that specialize in kidney stones treatment. Some of the best hospitals for kidney stones treatment in India are:

• Apollo Hospitals: Apollo Hospitals is a renowned hospital chain in India with several centers across the country. The hospital has state-of-the-art facilities and a team of experienced doctors who specialize in kidney stones treatment.
• Fortis Healthcare: Fortis Healthcare is another top hospital chain in India that offers comprehensive kidney stones treatment. The hospital has advanced technology and a team of highly skilled doctors who provide personalized care to patients.
• Medanta - The Medicity: Medanta - The Medicity is a multi-specialty hospital in Gurugram that offers world-class kidney stones treatment. The hospital has a team of experts who specialize in different aspects of kidney stones treatment, including diagnosis, management, and surgery.
• Max Healthcare: Max Healthcare is a leading healthcare provider in India that offers a wide range of services, including kidney stones treatment. The hospital has a team of experienced urologists and nephrologists who provide personalized care to patients.
• Manipal Hospitals: Manipal Hospitals is a top hospital chain in India with centers across the country. The hospital offers advanced kidney stones treatment using the latest technology and a team of highly skilled doctors.

Conclusion

Kidney stones can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but with timely diagnosis and treatment, it can be managed effectively. There are several treatment options available in India, ranging from watchful waiting and medication-based treatments to minimally invasive procedures and surgery. The cost of treatment varies depending on the type of treatment and the hospital or clinic where it is performed. However, India is home to several top-notch hospitals that offer world-class kidney stones treatment at an affordable cost. If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications and improve your quality of life.