The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Ureter Stone

An emergency urological condition in which stones passing from the kidney into the ureter canal cause obstruction and severe colicky pain.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Üroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Ureter Stone?

A ureter stone occurs when a stone formed in the kidney descends into the ureter. The ureter is a 25-30 cm muscular canal that connects the kidneys to the bladder. As the stone moves through this canal, it can become lodged at narrow points.

Ureter stones are one of the most severe causes of pain; the pain comes in waves and the patient cannot find relief by changing position. This condition is called 'renal colic'.

80% of stones smaller than 4 mm, 60% of 4-6 mm stones, and 40% of 6-8 mm stones pass spontaneously. Stones larger than 8 mm generally require intervention.

Symptoms

Fluctuating severe colicky pain extending from the flank to the groin
Nausea and vomiting
Blood in urine
Frequent urination and burning during urination (when the stone is near the bladder)
Fever and chills (when accompanied by infection — emergency)
Restlessness and inability to find a comfortable position

Risk Factors

Inadequate fluid intake
Previous history of kidney or ureter stones
High-salt, oxalate-rich diet
Hyperparathyroidism and metabolic disorders
Hot climate and excessive sweating
Obesity and sedentary lifestyle

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Emergency room visit for severe colicky pain
  • If fever and chills accompany (obstructing pyelonephritis — urological emergency)
  • Any stone in a single-kidney patient
  • If pain lasts more than 6 hours or cannot be controlled
  • If the stone does not pass despite waiting more than 4 weeks

Treatment Methods

01
Medical expulsive therapy: alpha blocker (tamsulosin) + NSAID/analgesia + ample hydration
02
ESWL: for proximal ureter stones smaller than 10 mm
03
Ureteroscopy (URS) + holmium laser lithotripsy: an effective and safe method for all ureter stones
04
JJ (double-J) stent: emergency urinary tract clearance in the presence of obstruction and infection
05
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL): in large proximal stones when URS fails
06
Prevention of stone recurrence with metabolic evaluation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Üroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Üroloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Appendicitis

Genel Cerrahi

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix causing severe pain in the lower right abdomen. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment are life-saving.

Inguinal Hernia

Genel Cerrahi

Inguinal hernia is the protrusion of intestine or fat into the inguinal canal due to weakness in the abdominal wall. It can be permanently corrected with surgical treatment.

Umbilical Hernia

Genel Cerrahi

Umbilical hernia manifests as a soft swelling around the navel. While it often resolves spontaneously in infants, surgical treatment may be required in adults.

Gallstones and Cholecystectomy

Genel Cerrahi

Gallstones cause severe pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after fatty meals. They are safely treated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Hemorrhoids (Piles)

Genel Cerrahi

Hemorrhoids result from swelling of the veins in the anus; they present with blood on toilet paper, itching, and pain. Various treatments are available, from lifestyle changes to surgery.

Anal Fissure

Genel Cerrahi

Anal fissure is a tear in the thin skin of the anal canal. It presents with sharp pain and bleeding and can be healed with medical or surgical treatment.

Pilonidal Sinus

Genel Cerrahi

Pilonidal sinus consists of tunnels and tracts prone to chronic infection, formed by hair becoming embedded under the skin in the tailbone area. Surgical treatment provides a permanent solution.

Thyroid Surgery

Genel Cerrahi

Thyroid surgery involves the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland for indications such as benign nodules, goiter, and thyroid cancer.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.