A ureteral stent is a thin, flexible tube inserted into the ureter, connecting the kidney to the bladder. Its primary purpose is to maintain an open pathway for urine flow, especially when a blockage like a kidney stone is present or to facilitate healing after a procedure. While the stent helps prevent urinary obstruction, its removal can often lead to temporary pain and irritation. Most individuals experience some discomfort, though it is generally short-lived and manageable.
Immediate Post-Removal Sensations
Immediately following ureteral stent removal, the urinary tract reacts to the absence of the foreign object. A common experience is a burning sensation during urination, which can persist for a couple of days as the urethra and bladder become irritated. Bladder spasms are also frequently noted, leading to a sudden, strong urge to urinate and increased urinary frequency. These spasms arise from the bladder muscle contracting in response to irritation.
Beyond localized urinary symptoms, some individuals may feel aching or discomfort in the flank or lower abdomen. This pain is attributed to the ureter and kidney readjusting to normal function without the stent. The stent’s presence can cause the ureter to relax, and its removal prompts the ureter to regain its natural muscular tone, which can temporarily cause discomfort. These immediate post-removal symptoms are typically normal reactions and tend to subside as the body recovers.
Typical Pain Duration and Influencing Factors
The duration and intensity of pain after ureteral stent removal vary among individuals, but it typically resolves within a few hours to a few days. Most people find discomfort largely subsides within 24 to 72 hours. While some residual discomfort might linger slightly longer, severe pain is usually not prolonged.
Several factors can influence the duration and intensity of pain after stent removal:
- Individual pain tolerance plays a role in how discomfort is perceived.
- The length of time the stent was in place can also be a factor; stents in place for less than seven days might be associated with increased pain after removal.
- The underlying reason for the stent’s placement, such as the size or location of a kidney stone or the nature of the surgical intervention, can impact post-removal recovery. Procedures involving stone basket extraction, for example, may be associated with more pain.
- Characteristics of the stent itself, including its material, diameter, and length, may contribute to the level of irritation experienced.
- Pre-existing conditions, such such as urinary tract infections or inflammation, can exacerbate discomfort following removal.
- A person’s activity level immediately after removal can influence pain; strenuous activity might prolong discomfort or cause symptoms like increased blood in the urine.
- Patient factors like younger age, having chronic pain conditions, or prior severe stent pain have also been associated with higher pain intensity.
Managing Discomfort and Recognizing Complications
Managing discomfort after ureteral stent removal involves several strategies. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are commonly recommended, and a healthcare provider might prescribe stronger pain medication or medications to reduce bladder spasms. Increasing fluid intake helps flush the urinary system and can prevent urinary tract infections. Resting and avoiding strenuous activities for a day or two can minimize irritation. Applying a warm compress to the lower abdomen or taking warm baths may also provide relief from bladder discomfort.
Recognize when symptoms might indicate a complication requiring medical attention. Contact a urologist or seek medical care for severe or worsening pain that does not improve with medication. Other warning signs include:
- A fever (over 101.5°F or 38.6°C) or chills, which could signal an infection.
- Persistent nausea or vomiting, an inability to urinate, or a significant decrease in urine output.
- While light pink urine or small amounts of blood are common for a few days, excessive or increasing bright red blood or large blood clots in the urine warrant immediate medical evaluation.
- Pain lasting significantly longer than the typical few days without improvement should also prompt a call to the healthcare provider.