The size and location of kidney stones can affect the treatment. In most cases, a kidney stone larger than 7mm is too large to pass by itself and requires medical attention. Many patients are curious about whether a kidney stone of 7mm will dissolve on its own or what is the best treatment for 7mm kidney stone?
In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about a 7 mm kidney stone its causes, symptoms, whether it can pass naturally, treatment options available and why consulting the Best Urologist in Noida, Dr. Anuj, ensures safe and effective recovery.
Understanding a 7mm Kidney Stone
A kidney stone forms when minerals like calcium, uric acid in the urinary tract, while small stones often pass naturally, a 7mm stone in the kidney or ureter is more complicated.
7mm stone in the kidney: Stones of this size lodged inside the kidney may cause discomfort and obstruction.
7mm stone in the lower ureter: These are more painful and often block urine flow, leading to severe symptoms.
Can a 7mm Kidney Stone Dissolve on Its Own?
Patients commonly ask if a 7mm kidney stone can dissolve naturally.
Small stones (<5mm): High chances of passing naturally with fluids and medicines.
7mm kidney stone: The chances of natural passage are very low. While medicines may help relieve pain and prevent infection, they rarely dissolve a stone of this size.
Symptoms of a 7mm Kidney Stone
Such symptoms are brought about by a 7mm kidney stone in addition to the ureter:
- Colicky pain of the back, belly, and/or groin. It may be felt in 1 or both sides.
- Blood in the urine which is termed as hematuria.
- Urinary stinging, the sense of urgency and frequent cycles of micturition.
- Being nauseous and vomiting as well.
- An affected person may also feel as if urine has to be stored or the volume is deficient.
Best Treatment Options for a 7mm Kidney Stone
1. Medication and Lifestyle Management
Medicines may be helpful for very few patients. This is especially true if the stone occurs near the ureter.
- Pain relievers.
- Alpha-blockers.
- Increased hydration and dietary changes.
2. Minimally Invasive Procedures
Modern urology offers safe, effective and minimally invasive treatments for kidney stones of this size.
a) Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
- Uses shock waves to break the 7mm stone in kidney into smaller fragments.
- Best suited for stones located in the kidney or upper ureter.
- Non-surgical done as an outpatient procedure.
b) Ureteroscopy (URS)
- Recommended for a 7mm stone in lower ureter.
- A thin scope is passed through the urethra and bladder to reach the ureter.
- The stone is either removed directly or broken into pieces using a laser.
c) RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery)
- Advanced endoscopic procedure for stones inside the kidney.
- Flexible ureteroscope and lasers are used to break stones safely.
- Minimal recovery time and very effective for medium-sized stones.
3. Advanced Surgical Options (if required)
In rare cases where the stone is multiple, complex, or associated with infection, PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy) may be advised. This is a keyhole surgery to remove stones directly from the kidney.
Recovery and Prevention Tips
- Upon treating an individual with a 7 mm kidney stone and it is important to prevent recurrence of the stone. Recommendations include the following:
- Drink 2 to 3 liters of freshwater every day.
- Restrict salt intake and avoid oxalate-rich foods such as spinach and limit animal protein.
- Follow-up imaging and urine testing to check for any recurrence.
- Eat a well-balanced diet along with exercising regularly and avoid aspirating fluids.
Why Choose Dr. Anuj – Best Urologist in Noida
Having to deal with a stubborn and painful 7mm kidney stone without the assistance of a highly trained urologist is quite concerning. Dr. Anuj, the Best Urologist in Noida, is a professional who offers modern and well-tolerated solutions to patients with kidney stones.
- Excellent in ESWL, URS, and RIRS with minimal incision surgical techniques.
- Excellent technology to guarantee comfort and a rapid recovery.
- Individual strategies centered on the patient.
Conclusion
A 7mm kidney stone is certainly not something that can be ignored or treated lightly. Unlike smaller stones that can be passed naturally 7mm stone which is either a kidney stone or lower ureter stones can be very painful and can impede urinary flow and kidney function. Untreated, serious complications can come to pass. Fortunately, modern urology has safe and effective procedures through ESWL, URS, and RIRS. All procedures are minimally invasive and greatly reduce recovery time.
Several aspects influence the functioning technique of kidney stone treatment including the location of the stone, the physiological condition of the patient and possible infection and blockage. With over 8 years of experience in handling intricate cases of kidney stones, Dr. Anuj Arora is known as the Best urologist in Noida as he emphasizes optimum safety and efficacy in all procedures, devising personalized treatment plans as dictated by patient physiology and advanced technology and modern methodologies in medicine.
