After Care for Kidney Stone Removal

Kidney stones can be extremely painful and cause complications. During recovery from kidney stone removal, you'll need to change your diet, take medications and take it slow. If patients follow their doctor's advice, a full recovery is normal.

Medication

Patients having kidney stones removed will probably be prescribed several medications. You should keep a list of medications you currently take and medications your doctor prescribes for after the stone removal to show your pharmacist.

You should take all your medications as directed. If some of your medications make you drowsy, it is especially important to heed warnings like, "don't operate heavy machinery" and never drink alcohol while taking those medications. Always take antibiotics as directed, even if you feel better. Only the full dose of antibiotics will prevent infection. Also take pain medications at prescribed intervals. If you wait too long to take your pain medications, they may not be as effective.

Activity

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Too much activity after kidney stone removal may hinder your recovery. During the first few days, things like blood in your urine and mild to moderate abdominal pain are common, making activity painful. Get plenty of rest during your recovery. Do just a little bit more each day, but take it slow and don't push yourself. Usually, patients can return to work when they feel able.

Diet

Patients may need to change their diet after having a kidney stone removed to aid recovery and help prevent new kidney stones from forming. Eating healthy foods may help you feel better and have more energy. You may need to avoid or limit meat, poultry and fish because they increase acid in the urine. You will need to drink plenty of fluids and avoid caffeine, which may dehydrate you. You'll also want to encourage regular bowel movements by getting adequate amounts of fiber.

When to See your Doctor

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Your doctor will probably schedule a follow-up appointment a week or two after removing a kidney stone. At this appointment, the doctor will make sure you're recovering as planned, and if you have a stent, it will probably be removed at this time. Always keep your follow-up appointments.

After kidney stone removal, complications may occur. Common complications include blood clots near the kidneys, nerve palsies, pancreatitis and obstruction caused by leftover kidney stone fragments. You should see a doctor if you suspect any of these complications. You should also see a doctor immediately if you're having trouble urinating, you have an increasing amount of blood in your urine, your pain is unmanageable, you have chest pain, you have a fever or you're vomiting.