Post-operative pain

[Andib1009]

I had kidney stone surgically removed two months ago.  I've been basically pain free since the removal of the stent a week later.  But just yesterday I started to get an ache in my left side, where it had hurt previously.  Could it be surgically related, or am I potentially dealing with another stone?  My back does not ache nor is it severe pain at this time.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

How are you? Indeed, kidney stones have a tendency to recur. This is why patients are encouraged to strain their urine so they can collect the stone when it eventually passes and send it for chemical composition analysis. This will be used along with a 24 hour urine chemical analysis test to establish preventative options. Depending on the type of stone, diet modification and medical treatment are started as preventive options.  I would recommend that you inform your doctor of the symptoms you are experiencing right now and further testing may need to be done. Over-the-counter pain medications may also help.

Take care and do keep us posted.

[ngio64]

I would not rule out another kidney stone. if your body produced one stone, it can produce more.  Did the surgeon tell you what the stone was composed of and tell you how to prevent more?
Depending on what was composed of, you can try to prevent more with diet modification and/or medications. I take Urocit K to change the PH of my urine to help prevent calcium oxalate stones and Alopurinol (gout medication) to help prevent Uric Acid stones.
I also was told to drink at least a gallon of water a day, avoid foods that are high in oxalate and purine.
I hope you feel better soon.