Patient's question:
Grandpa is already 68 years old. Lately, he has been complaining of lower back pain. I took him to the hospital for a thorough examination, and they said he has a disease. His right kidney has hydronephrosis and kidney stones, and both are severe. Does this require surgery? Grandpa is old, and I'm afraid he won't be able to endure it.Doctor's answer:
Right kidney stone with hydronephrosis, surgery is required for treatment. Otherwise, long-term kidney hydronephrosis may lead to purulent infection of the right kidney. Currently, there is no issue with your grandfather's right kidney function, and it will not pose a life-threatening risk. Kidney stones are primarily caused by insufficient water intake, leading to the crystallization of phosphates and urinary oxalates. After the surgery to remove the stones, it is important to drink more water and stay more active in daily life, which can effectively prevent the formation of new stones.