Struggling with Kidney Stones and Waiting for Surgery
I’m a 33-year-old woman, standing at 5 feet 5 inches and weighing around 200 pounds. On December 23rd, I experienced an episode of excruciating pain that was completely unprecedented for me. It culminated in a bout of vomiting, after which the pain surprisingly subsided. Given the intensity of my discomfort, I made the decision to visit the emergency room. After examination, it was revealed that a 9mm stone was blocking one of my kidneys, leading to a urinary infection. I was hospitalized for three days, during which I received intravenous antibiotics. They performed a minor procedure to insert a kidney stent, and I was informed that they intended to break down the stone, but that procedure did not take place. Fast forward to the present; I still have that same stent in place. I have been on a prolonged waiting list for surgery to eliminate both the stent and the stone. During this waiting period, I tested positive for a urinary tract infection and was prescribed various antibiotics. Unfortunately, the infection keeps recurring despite urine tests, prompting my urologist to recommend levofloxacin. I am quite anxious about the potential side effects of levofloxacin. Additionally, it seems my surgeon is postponing my stone removal and instead opting just to change the stents. Throughout this ordeal, I have been in excruciating pain, severely impacting my work and overall quality of life. I often find myself spending time in the bathroom, struggling to urinate, or crying from the relentless pain. I rarely leave the house aside from work due to my constant need for a bathroom. Nights are particularly difficult, as sleeping is nearly impossible because of the discomfort caused by the stent and the never-ending urge to go. I feel lost and overwhelmed, and I seriously doubt I can endure this situation for two more months without significant relief.
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 10:40:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing with your kidney stones and the related infections. It sounds incredibly difficult to manage both physical pain and the emotional toll this situation has taken. Let's break down what's happening and focus on steps you can take to improve your situation while you await further treatment.
Main Points:
- Ongoing Pain & Discomfort: The stent and urinary tract infections are causing significant distress and affecting your quality of life.
- Management of Infections: You’re experiencing recurrent urinary tract infections, which need to be addressed while waiting for stone removal.
- Concern about Antibiotics: It's understandable to be anxious about the potential side effects of levofloxacin.
Explanation:
You've been diagnosed with a kidney stone causing urine blockage, leading to infections and pain. The kidney stent is intended to help but can also cause discomfort and urgency. Recurring UTIs can be frustrating, often requiring multiple rounds of antibiotics to control. Levofloxacin is a strong antibiotic used for such infections, but you’re right to be cautious about side effects that can include nausea, diarrhea, or tendon issues.
Next Steps:
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Communicate with Your Urologist:
- If you haven’t done so, express your pain levels and urgency directly to your urologist. Ask about the rationale for postponing stone removal and if there are any options for addressing your pain more effectively in the meantime.
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Consider Pain Management Options:
- Discuss with your healthcare provider about adjusting your pain management regimen. They may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen or prescribe something more effective if necessary.
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Hydration and Diet Changes:
- Stay hydrated, as drinking plenty of fluids can help flush the urinary system. Try to avoid foods that can irritate the bladder, like caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol, as these can increase discomfort.
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Explore Other Support Resources:
- If you find it hard to cope, consider looking into support groups for people dealing with chronic pain or kidney stones. Talking to others who understand what you're going through can be beneficial.
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Follow Up on Infections:
- If levofloxacin is prescribed, ensure you discuss your concerns with your doctor about potential side effects. Additionally, ensure follow-up urine tests are scheduled after treatment to monitor for recurring infections.
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Self-monitoring:
- Keep a diary of your pain levels, urinary urgency, and any other symptoms. This record can be helpful when discussing your treatment with your healthcare provider and may facilitate quicker action or further interventions.
I hope these suggestions provide you with a clearer path forward during this difficult time. Please remember to advocate for yourself and stay in close communication with your healthcare providers about your needs and concerns.
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