URETERIC CALCULI

Ureteric Calculi

1. Definition: Ureteric calculi refers to the formation of stones within the ureter, which is the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

Pathology:

1. Formation of ureteric stones usually occurs when minerals in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, or uric acid, crystallize and stick together.
2. The stones can be small and pass through the ureter on their own, or they can be large and cause blockages or damage to the ureter.
3. The stones can be smooth or jagged, and they can be located anywhere along the ureter.

Types of Ureteric Calculi:

1. Calcium stones: These are the most common type of ureteric stone and are usually caused by excessive calcium in the urine.
2. Uric acid stones: These stones are usually caused by a diet that is high in meat, seafood, or sweets, and low in fluids.
3. Cystine stones: These stones are usually caused by a genetic disorder that causes the body to produce excess cystine.
4. Struvite stones: These stones are usually caused by a urinary tract infection.
5. Xanthine stones: These stones are rare and usually caused by a genetic disorder.

Causes:

1. Excessive intake of calcium, oxalate, or uric acid.
2. Dehydration.
3. Obesity.
4. Family history.
5. Certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease or a urinary tract infection.
6. Medications, such as diuretics or calcium supplements.

Clinical Features:

1. Severe pain in the side or back, usually below the ribs.
2. Pain that radiates to the groin or testicles in men.
3. Blood in the urine.
4. Frequent or painful urination.
5. Nausea and vomiting.

Investigations:

1. Imaging studies: X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasound to visualize the stone and the ureter.
2. Urinalysis: To check for blood, protein, or other abnormalities in the urine.
3. Blood tests: To check for calcium or uric acid levels.

Complications:

1. Blockage: The stone blocks the flow of urine, which can cause kidney damage or infection.
2. Infection: The stone can become infected, which can cause abscesses or sepsis.
3. Kidney damage: The stone can cause scarring or damage to the kidney.

Management and Treatment:

1. Conservative treatment: Drinking plenty of fluids and taking pain medication to help the stone pass on its own.
2. Surgical treatment: Removing the stone using a scope or making an incision in the abdomen.
3. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): Using shock waves to break the stone into smaller pieces that can pass through the ureter.
4. Ureteroscopy: Using a scope to remove the stone or break it into smaller pieces.

Homeopathic Therapeutic Medicines:

1. Berberis: For renal colic and stones.
2. Cantharis: For burning sensations in the urethra or bladder.
3. Lycopodium: For kidney stones or gravel.
4. Nux vomica: For kidney stones or gravel.
5. Sarsaparilla: For kidney stones or gravel.