Can a CT Scan Accurately Diagnose Kidney Stones?
At Victoria ER, we understand the discomfort and pain that comes with kidney stones. Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain when they pass through the urinary tract. In this blog, we’ll discuss the signs and symptoms of kidney stones, the tools we use to diagnose them, and the various treatments available.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF KIDNEY STONES:
- Kidney stones can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Sharp pain in the back, sides, and lower abdomen
- Painful urination
- Blood in the urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Fever and chills (if there is an infection)
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. At Victoria ER, we have state-of-the-art technology and experienced medical staff to diagnose and treat kidney stones.
DIAGNOSING KIDNEY STONES:
At Victoria ER, we use a range of diagnostic tools to identify kidney stones accurately. One of the most common tools we use is a CT Scan. A CT Scan uses X-Rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the kidneys and urinary tract. It’s a quick and painless procedure that allows our doctors to diagnose kidney stones with high accuracy.
Other diagnostic tools we use include ultrasound, blood tests, and urinalysis. Depending on the severity and location of the kidney stones, our doctors may use one or a combination of these tools.
TREATING KIDNEY STONES:
Treatment for kidney stones varies depending on the size and location of the stone. Small stones can pass through the urinary tract on their own with the help of pain medication and increased hydration. For larger stones, our doctors may refer you to an urologist for one of the following treatments:
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): This non-invasive procedure uses shock waves to break up the kidney stone into smaller pieces that can be passed through the urine.
Ureteroscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin tube with a camera through the urethra and bladder to reach the stone in the ureter or kidney. The urologist can then remove the stone or break it up using a laser or other tools.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): This procedure is used for large kidney stones that cannot be removed using ESWL or ureteroscopy. It involves making a small incision in the back and using a scope to remove the stone.
At Victoria ER, our medical staff puts emphasis on our patients, and providing you with the specialized care that you need.
IN CONCLUSION:
Kidney stones can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, they can be managed effectively. At Victoria ER, we use a range of diagnostic tools, including CT Scans, to accurately diagnose kidney stones.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of kidney stones, don’t hesitate to visit Victoria ER for prompt and effective care.
