A kidney stent, or ureteral stent, is a thin, flexible tube temporarily placed inside the ureter, the duct that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. This device is typically inserted to ensure the kidney can drain properly, often following a procedure to remove kidney stones or to bypass an obstruction. Its removal marks a significant step in recovery, signaling that the urinary tract is ready to function without support. Knowing what sensations and steps to anticipate after the removal procedure can help manage the brief recovery period successfully.
Expected Physical Sensations
It is common to experience several normal, temporary symptoms immediately following the stent removal. One of the most frequently reported sensations is the feeling of urgency and frequency, often accompanied by bladder spasms. These spasms occur because the bladder, accustomed to the stent’s presence, contracts rhythmically in response to residual irritation and changes in pressure dynamics.
Mild discomfort or pain is also expected, usually localized in the flank, groin, or lower abdomen. This sensation is often described as a dull ache or cramping and reflects the temporary irritation of the ureter lining caused by the stent’s withdrawal. This discomfort is typically short-lived, with symptoms commonly resolving or significantly fading within the first 24 to 72 hours. For some individuals, especially those who had the stent in place for a short duration, this pain can feel more intense, sometimes temporarily mimicking a kidney stone.
Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is another anticipated finding in the first few days after removal. The urine may appear pink, light red, or have a slightly smoky color due to minor bleeding from the irritated lining of the urinary tract. This usually subsides quickly, but small amounts of blood may reappear intermittently, especially with increased activity.
Practical Recovery Guidelines
Successful recovery relies heavily on active self-care, starting with aggressive hydration to help the urinary system flush out any remaining debris or residual irritation. Drinking plenty of water is the most effective step, as highly diluted urine is less irritating to the healing ureteral and bladder lining, which helps minimize discomfort and reduces the concentration of potential irritants.
Pain management should be addressed with medications as directed by a healthcare provider. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, are often recommended to manage general aches and inflammatory discomfort. In some cases, a physician may prescribe anti-spasm medication, such as oxybutynin, to specifically address intense bladder cramping and urgency. Taking warm baths or applying a heating pad can also provide temporary relief from spasms and discomfort.
Patients should be mindful of physical activity immediately post-removal. While most people can return to light activity the following day, strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or activities that involve significant jarring should be avoided for a short time. Exertion can increase pressure on the kidneys and bladder, potentially leading to increased discomfort or a temporary spike in hematuria. Avoiding known bladder irritants in the diet, such as caffeine, alcohol, and very spicy foods, can also help reduce urinary frequency and urgency during the initial recovery phase.
Warning Signs and When to Seek Help
While mild pain and pink urine are normal, certain symptoms are signs of a complication and require immediate medical attention. A significant, persistent fever, typically defined as over 101.5°F, especially when accompanied by chills, can indicate a urinary tract or kidney infection. Prompt treatment is required to prevent the infection from spreading.
Severe pain that rapidly worsens or cannot be controlled with prescribed pain medication is another reason to contact a healthcare provider immediately. This may suggest an obstruction or severe spasms that require a different medical approach. The complete inability to urinate (acute urinary retention) is a medical emergency that must be addressed without delay.
A sudden and significant increase in hematuria warrants an urgent medical evaluation, such as passing large blood clots or seeing urine that resembles dark fruit punch or tomato juice. Nausea and vomiting that accompany severe pain or fever are also warning signs that should prompt a call to the urology team.