Kidney stones are a common condition in Vietnam, accounting for 45-50% of urinary tract diseases. This prevalence is often linked to the hot, humid climate, insufficient water intake, and a salty diet. Stones form from the crystallization of mineral components in urine, primarily calcium oxalate or phosphate, originating in the kidneys and potentially moving down the urinary tract to the ureters and bladder.

Regarding your 18 mm stone, Minh, even without pain or symptoms, it should not be underestimated. Stones larger than 10 mm are unlikely to pass naturally. If such a stone travels from the kidney to the ureter, it can block urine flow, leading to hydronephrosis, urinary tract infections, and long-term kidney damage, potentially even kidney failure.

Dr. Phan Huynh Tien Dat consults a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

While some kidney stones cause acute symptoms like severe renal colic originating in the lower back and radiating to the pelvis, lower abdomen, or genitals, accompanied by nausea and vomiting, many develop silently. These asymptomatic stones are often discovered incidentally during ultrasounds, CT scans, or routine health check-ups. By the time they are found, they may have already led to serious complications such as recurrent urinary tract infections, hydronephrosis, pyonephrosis, caliectasis, acute or chronic pyelonephritis, and acute or chronic kidney failure.

Treatment options depend on the stone's size, location, and impact. Large stones exceeding 10 mm, like yours, or those causing complications typically require surgical intervention. Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City offers advanced procedures such as flexible ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy and minimally invasive percutaneous nephrolithotomy. These methods effectively remove stones, reduce pain, ensure quick recovery, and preserve kidney function.

Do not wait for severe pain to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent complications and reduce future medical costs. To prevent stone formation and recurrence, ensure adequate daily fluid intake of about 2,5-3 liters to avoid concentrated urine. Limit salt, sugar, organ meats, and oxalate-rich foods. Additionally, adopt a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and maintain a healthy weight. Routine health check-ups are crucial for early detection and timely intervention for asymptomatic kidney stones, safeguarding kidney function.

Dr. Phan Huynh Tien Dat

Department of Urology

Center for Urology - Nephrology - Andrology

Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City