A ureteral stent is a thin, flexible tube placed inside a ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. Its primary function is to keep this passageway open, ensuring urine can drain properly. This is often necessary after procedures like kidney stone removal or to bypass a blockage. The stent is a temporary device designed to support healing. One end of the tube is positioned in the kidney and the other in the bladder, with coils on each end to hold it in place.
Common Stent-Related Symptoms
The presence of a ureteral stent often causes a range of expected side effects. Many people experience bladder irritation, which can lead to a frequent or sudden need to urinate. Discomfort in the bladder or kidney area, described as flank or back pain, is also common, particularly during and after urination. This occurs because the stent can allow a small amount of urine to travel back toward the kidney when the bladder contracts.
It is also normal to see some blood in the urine, a condition known as hematuria, while the stent is in place. This may be more noticeable for the first few days after the procedure or following strenuous activity. These symptoms are a standard part of having a stent and do not prevent people from carrying on with their daily routines.
Recognizing the Signs of Infection
While some discomfort is normal, certain symptoms may signal a developing infection. A primary indicator of infection is a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, which is often accompanied by chills or uncontrollable shaking. These responses suggest the body is fighting an infection related to the stent or urinary tract.
Changes in urinary symptoms that go beyond the expected irritation are also a cause for concern. Pain that worsens, becomes severe, or is not managed by prescribed pain medication could indicate an infection. Similarly, a noticeable change in the urine, such as becoming cloudy, developing a strong or foul smell, or containing a much larger amount of blood, points toward a possible infection. General feelings of being unwell, such as nausea, vomiting, or fatigue, are additional signs.
Action Steps for a Suspected Infection
If you experience symptoms suggestive of an infection, it is important to contact your urologist or the healthcare provider who managed your procedure without delay. They can assess your symptoms and determine the necessary course of action, which often involves a urine test to confirm an infection and a prescription for antibiotics.
Immediate medical attention may be required for more severe symptoms. A high-grade fever, intense and uncontrollable shaking chills, confusion, or the inability to urinate are signs of a potentially serious infection that could be spreading. These symptoms warrant a visit to an emergency department. Delaying treatment for a stent-related infection can lead to significant health complications.