Kidney Stone Treatment Options: ESWL & Medications

Kidney stones are mineral deposits that can form in the kidneys. The cause is yet unknown, but several treatment options are available to treat the condition.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

• The ESWL treatment uses shock waves to penetrate the body and break down kidney stones. This is the most commonly used treatment.

Allopurinol

• Medications are prescribed to reduce the acidity of urine, a key component in the crystallization process that causes kidney stones.

Acetohydroxamic Acid (AHA)

• AHA is a long-term antibiotic that is used to treat struvite stones caused by an infection

At Home Treatment

• Drinking 2 to 3 quarts of water per day is recommended to help aid in the passing of kidney stones.

Ureteroscopic Stone Removal (USR)

• USR is used to treat kidney stones stuck in the ureter. A ureteroscope is used to extract the stones or shatter them with a shock wave.