Stents for Kidney Stones: What You Need to Know

 If you’ve had a kidney stone, chances are you’ve experienced a stent too. In this blog, I explain what stents are, when they should (and shouldn’t) be used, and how to manage the awful discomfort they cause. I also share natural options that can help reduce irritation while healing.

Key Takeaways

• Stents are used to drain urine and reduce kidney stone pain, but are often overused.

• They can cause burning urination, bladder spasms, and significant discomfort.

• Natural strategies like even hydration, citrates, and anti-spasmodic herbs help.

• Always question if a stent is truly necessary before surgery or after treatment.

If you’ve ever had a kidney stone, chances are you’ve also had a stent placed at some point. Stents are thin plastic or silicone tubes inserted through the urinary tract to help drain urine from the kidney when an obstruction, like a kidney stone, is causing a backup.

The backup of urine leads to something called hydronephrosis, which causes your kidney to swell and brings on intense pain, also known as renal colic. The stent relieves this pressure, which can make the pain more manageable while you're waiting for the stone to pass or for surgery.

Typically, a stent will stay in place for about three to seven days. However, I’ve talked to many people who were left with a stent for weeks or even months while waiting for surgery, and let me tell you, it’s pure misery. Stents are not meant for long-term placement unless absolutely necessary.

When Should a Stent Be Used?

Many doctors and urologists use stents incorrectly. So let’s get really clear on when stents should—and shouldn’t—be used.

Stents are appropriate when:

• There's an infection present that needs to be drained.

• Severe pain from hydronephrosis needs to be managed.

• Urine flow needs to be restored before a scheduled surgery.

• Post-surgery, if there’s an injury to the ureter, abnormal narrowing, impaired kidney function, or a second surgery is planned soon.

Stents are NOT appropriate just to “help pass the stone” before surgery. In fact, placing a stent can lock a stone in place, making natural passage impossible without surgery. Always ask your doctor if a stent is absolutely necessary based on your specific situation.

What It Feels Like to Have a Stent

Let’s be real—having a stent is awful. You’ll likely experience:

• Burning during urination (sometimes mild, sometimes feeling like razor blades)

• Bladder spasms as your body tries to force the foreign object out

• Frequent, urgent urination that never seems to give you relief

• Flank or abdominal pain that feels like constant fullness

• Blood in your urine, caused by irritation in the urinary tract

One of the worst sensations is something called ureteral reflux, where urine actually moves back up the stent into the kidney. It’s uncomfortable and painful, but thankfully it resolves after the stent is removed.

Managing Stent Discomfort Naturally

Now, let's talk about what you can do to survive this.

To manage burning urination:
Stay away from caffeine, alcohol, sugar, and acidic drinks like citrus juices. These irritants act like fuel on a fire when your urinary tract is already inflamed. Stick to bland, non-irritating foods and drinks.

To manage bladder spasms:
If you want a pharmaceutical route, alpha blockers like Tamsulosin (Flomax) can help relax the smooth muscle tissue and minimize spasms.

If you prefer natural options, look for anti-spasmodic herbs like horsetail, chamomile, and marshmallow root. These are available in capsule or tea form and can be incredibly helpful.

To manage pain:
Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help, but use them cautiously. Overuse can damage your kidneys.

A natural alternative I highly recommend is Chanca Piedra, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. It's part of the supplement regimen I personally use and suggest. 

The Importance of Consistent Hydration

No matter what, consistent hydration is critical.

Aim for 8 to 12 ounces of water every hour while awake.

Avoid chugging large amounts all at once. Smooth, steady hydration helps prevent further irritation and keeps urine flowing.

Final Thoughts on Stents for Kidney Stones

If your doctor recommends a stent, ask questions. Make sure it's truly necessary based on your diagnosis and situation.

If you do end up needing a stent, be proactive in managing your comfort. Small changes in your hydration, diet, and natural supplement use can make a world of difference in getting through this tough experience.

Remember—you’re not alone in this, and knowledge is your greatest weapon against kidney stones and stent misery.