Treatment of kidney stones by urologist Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko in the city of Dnipro

Patients present with periodic lower back pain, difficulty urinating, the appearance of blood in the urine, or recurring symptoms that interfere with daily life.

The doctor conducts a detailed analysis of the complaints and medical history, evaluates the condition based on examination results, and identifies the causes of the symptoms in each individual case.

The patient receives a clear and understandable action plan: what to do now to relieve the condition, which examinations are necessary, and how to monitor health progress over time.

The doctor pays special attention to the differential diagnosis of causes and the dynamic monitoring of patients, which helps to avoid complications and adjust treatment if needed.

When to See a Doctor

If you have kidney stones and notice any troubling symptoms or changes in your condition, it is a reason to discuss them with a doctor. Patients often seek help due to discomfort or difficulties that affect daily life. The doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and order necessary tests to clarify the situation.

You should make an appointment with a urologist if, when dealing with kidney stones, you notice:

• Constant or intermittent pain in the lower back
• Dull or sharp pain during urination
• Increased frequency of urination urges
• A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Presence of blood in the urine or changes in its color
• Increased pain during physical activity or changes in body position
• Symptoms interfering with restful sleep or work
• Recurring or worsening symptoms over several days
• No improvement after self-care measures at home
• Symptoms appearing for the first time and causing concern
• Worsening symptoms in the case of a chronic condition
• The need to identify causes and choose effective treatment

Consulting a specialist will help determine the causes of your symptoms and develop the most appropriate diagnostic plan. Even if symptoms are mild, their appearance is a reason to seek consultation to promptly rule out complications and adjust your care plan.

Emergency Situations or When to See a Doctor Immediately

• Sudden onset of severe pain in the lower back or abdomen
• Rapid deterioration of general condition with dizziness and weakness
• Presence of a large amount of blood or clots in the urine
• Difficulty urinating: complete inability to urinate
• Combination of high fever with chills and side pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, do not wait for a scheduled appointment—seek emergency medical help immediately. Our clinic offers a home visit service for prompt diagnosis and support.

Causes and Risk Factors for Kidney Stones

Understanding the possible causes of kidney stone formation and the factors that can increase the risk of their development will help you be better prepared for examinations and discussions with your doctor. Some factors can be controlled and adjusted if necessary, which is important for patients to consider.

Main Causes / Mechanisms (Briefly)

• Changes in urine composition leading to salt precipitation
• Impaired urine flow, which promotes retention and stone formation
• Elevated levels of substances that contribute to stone formation
• Inflammatory processes and urinary tract infections
• Genetic predisposition to urolithiasis

Risk Factors

• Insufficient fluid intake during the day
• Frequent consumption of salty and high-protein foods
• Excess body weight and low physical activity
• Chronic kidney or bladder diseases
• High ambient temperature and frequent sweating
• Metabolic disorders, including issues with calcium and uric acid
• Age over 40 and male gender
• Family history of kidney stones

Reversible Causes That Should Be Ruled Out

• Inadequate hydration and dehydration
• Urinary tract infections that may promote salt precipitation
• Use of certain medications affecting urine composition
• Unbalanced diet with excess salts and proteins

The formation of kidney stones is a complex process; accurate assessment of causes and risk factors requires consultation with a physician and additional tests.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of kidney stones is aimed at determining the cause of symptoms and selecting the optimal strategy for further observation or treatment. The doctor assesses the patient’s condition comprehensively to understand which examinations are specifically needed for you.

Diagnostic Approach

• Taking a detailed medical history, including description of symptoms and complaint history
• Physical examination and assessment of the patient’s overall condition
• Ordering basic urine and blood tests as indicated
• Ultrasound examination of the kidneys and urinary tract if necessary
• Additional diagnostic methods (X-ray, CT scan) depending on the situation and indications
• Interpretation of results and development of a plan for further actions

Typical Examinations as Indicated

May include:

• Complete urine and blood tests
• Biochemical blood analysis
• Ultrasound of the kidneys
• Radiography of the kidneys and urinary tract
• Computed tomography (CT) as prescribed by the doctor

What to Bring to Your Appointment

• Previous test and examination results
• List of medications currently being taken
• Symptom diary or description of complaints
• Information about comorbid conditions
• History of prior medical visits and treatments

Accurate assessment of the condition with kidney stones requires an individualized approach, which depends on the results of the examination and tests.

Treatment

Treatment for kidney stones is aimed at reducing symptoms, preventing complications, and improving the condition of the urinary system. The therapy plan is selected individually, taking into account the examination results and the patient’s condition.

Therapy Goals

• Alleviate pain and other unpleasant symptoms
• Correct the causes of stone formation and prevent new stones
• Preserve kidney and urinary tract function
• Prevent the development of complications and recurrences

Main Treatment Approaches

• May include medication to reduce symptoms and correct disorders
• Non-medication measures aimed at improving metabolism and reducing risk
• Interventions as indicated for stone removal or fragmentation
• Recommendations on regimen and lifestyle tailored to individual characteristics
• Monitoring the condition through follow-up examinations as prescribed by the doctor

What the Doctor Does

• Selects and adjusts treatment based on current data and symptoms
• Takes into account comorbidities and possible therapy risks
• Monitors side effects and modifies the plan if necessary
• Explains criteria for effectiveness and options for further actions
• Coordinates treatment with other specialists when needed

What to Expect: Plan and Monitoring

• Effectiveness is tentatively assessed based on symptom dynamics and examination results
• The plan is adjusted if the desired effect is not achieved or adverse reactions appear
• Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor the condition and timely adjust therapy
• An individualized approach considers each patient’s specifics and changes according to the situation

Detailed information about treatment options for kidney stones can be obtained during a consultation with Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko.

Prevention

Prevention of kidney stones helps reduce the risk of recurrence and supports the health of the urinary system. The plan of measures is tailored individually and depends on the body's characteristics and accompanying factors.

Main Primary Prevention Measures

• Ensure adequate fluid intake throughout the day
• Reduce consumption of salty and excessively high-protein foods
• Maintain a normal weight and level of physical activity
• Manage chronic diseases as directed by a physician
• Avoid prolonged dehydration, especially during hot weather

Screening and Secondary Prevention / Regular Monitoring

• Regular monitoring of kidney function and urine analysis as recommended by your doctor
• Discuss with your doctor the need for repeated examinations if symptoms appear
• Monitor risk factors and adjust lifestyle habits as indicated

Practical Tips

• Increase your level of physical activity according to specialist recommendations
• Talk with your doctor about the effects of current medications on your kidneys and urinary system
• Try to avoid hypothermia and injuries to the lower back area
• Pay attention to how you feel and seek timely medical advice if concerning symptoms arise

Preventive measures for kidney stones require regular consultation with your doctor and are adjusted individually based on your situation.

Important to Know

The treatment of kidney stones requires not only the elimination of symptoms but also the identification of the underlying causes. Early consultation allows for determining the optimal approach and reducing the risk of complications. It is important to consider that the course of the disease may depend on the overall condition of the body, physical stress, emotional stress, and concurrent illnesses. Dynamic monitoring helps to promptly adjust the treatment plan if symptoms or the patient’s condition change. Self-medication can complicate diagnosis and lead to undesirable effects.

• Identifying the cause of stone formation is more important than just relieving symptoms
• Early assessment reduces the risk of progression and complications
• The disease course may depend on factors such as stress, physical exertion, and sleep quality
• Regular monitoring helps to timely adjust treatment in case of changes
• Self-treatment can obscure the clinical picture and delay diagnosis
• Prevention and treatment require a comprehensive approach and specialist supervision
• The doctor explains the treatment plan clearly and supports the patient at all stages

For more comprehensive information about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for kidney stones, we recommend visiting the main page on our website.

Self-care Before the Appointment: What You Can and Cannot Do

Before seeing the doctor for kidney stones, it is important to follow safe measures that can help alleviate your condition and preserve the accuracy of symptoms. If your condition worsens, urgently seek medical assistance from Dr. Sergey Nikolayevich Glushchenko.

What You Can Do Before the Appointment

• Write down when and how the symptoms appeared, what makes them better or worse
• Bring a list of all medications and supplements you are currently taking
• Measure and record your temperature, blood pressure, and pulse rate if you know how
• Keep a symptom diary: note the time of onset, pain intensity, and influencing factors
• Try to reduce physical activity and ensure rest until your doctor’s visit
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, unless contraindicated
• Stay calm and avoid stress as much as possible
• Prepare information about any related illnesses and previous medical visits

What You Should Not Do Before the Appointment

• Do not stop taking your current medications without consulting your doctor
• Do not start taking new medications or herbal remedies on your own
• Do not increase physical activity if you experience pain or discomfort
• Do not try to relieve severe pain by yourself without consulting a specialist
• Do not ignore worsening symptoms or delay seeking medical attention
• Do not interpret test results or imaging on your own
• Do not use agents that may change the color or characteristics of your urine
• Do not combine multiple painkillers without a doctor’s recommendation

If you experience any urgent symptoms, immediately seek help from Dr. Sergey Nikolayevich Glushchenko.

How I Can Help as a Doctor with Kidney Stones

A consultation for kidney stones is not just an examination and gathering complaints, but a comprehensive analysis of the situation to understand the causes and choose the right approach. During the appointment, I assess your condition, propose an effective plan, and monitor its implementation to reduce the risk of complications and recurrence.

In a kidney stones consultation, I can help you with the following:

• Analyze symptoms and medical history to identify possible causes
• Assess the severity of the condition and associated risks
• Review current prescriptions and medication tolerability
• Develop a plan for next steps: examination, treatment, and monitoring progress
• Consider comorbidities and current medications when selecting therapy
• Provide recommendations on lifestyle and daily routine tailored to your individual needs
• Explain criteria for evaluating treatment effectiveness and timing for follow-up
• Conduct initial diagnostics to identify causes and rule out other conditions
• Adjust treatment if there is insufficient effect or the appearance of side effects

My goal is to ensure a comprehensive approach that takes all aspects of your health into account. This helps avoid ineffective prescriptions, minimize risks, and achieve the most comfortable condition possible. It is important not to skip ongoing monitoring to timely adjust the plan and prevent complications.

What questions can you ask a doctor about kidney stones

During a consultation regarding kidney stones, you can discuss the following issues with Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko:

• The onset of lower back pain, especially if it intensifies and radiates to the abdomen
• Difficulty or pain during urination
• Presence of blood in the urine or changes in its color
• Recurring symptoms and discomfort that do not resolve on their own
• Lack of effect from previously prescribed treatment
• Questions about preventing the recurrence of stone formation
• Monitoring of accompanying conditions affecting the kidneys
• Selection of further examinations and clarification of the diagnosis

In case of sudden severe pain, inability to urinate, or a significant worsening of your condition, urgent medical help is required — do not wait for a scheduled appointment.

Questions patients commonly ask during a consultation:

• What is happening to me and why have these symptoms appeared?
• Why could stones have formed at this particular time?
• How to distinguish kidney stones from other kidney or urinary tract problems?
• What examinations are necessary in my case for an accurate assessment?
• Which tests are absolutely required, and which ones can be skipped?
• How to properly prepare for examinations and the doctor’s appointment?
• What treatment options are available and how do they differ?
• Is it possible to completely eliminate the stones, or is this a chronic issue?
• What should I do if the prescribed treatment does not bring relief?
• Is it possible to avoid surgery or invasive procedures?
• How long does treatment usually last and how often should I be examined?
• How to recognize signs of improvement or deterioration in my condition?
• What should I do in case of sudden worsening or flare-up of symptoms?

It is important to understand that the consultation is aimed at a comprehensive analysis of your situation and the selection of an individual plan for examination and treatment. In case of urgent symptoms, the doctor may refer you to emergency care or to related specialists for timely intervention.

How the Consultation Proceeds

A consultation for kidney stones involves reviewing your complaints, assessing your current condition, and developing a plan for further actions. The scope of examinations is determined individually, based on indications, and depends on your condition and medical history. It is not always possible to obtain a complete diagnosis in a single appointment, but it is an important step toward understanding the problem and creating a treatment plan.

1. Clarifying complaints and the purpose of the visit — tell us exactly what bothers you, when the symptoms appeared, what worsens or relieves your condition, and what your expectations are for the appointment.
2. Medical history collection — we discuss risk factors, the frequency of symptom recurrence, the presence of comorbidities, and lifestyle specifics.
3. Review of previous treatments and examinations — if you have already undergone treatment or diagnostics, it is important to bring results and a list of medications you are taking for analysis.
4. Examination and additional tests as indicated — the doctor will perform the necessary assessment of your condition and, if needed, will conduct or order simple measurements and tests.
5. Preliminary evaluation — we discuss what is most likely causing your symptoms and possible scenarios for the situation’s development without making a final diagnosis.
6. Examination plan — based on indications, you may be offered an ultrasound of the kidneys, blood and urine tests, X-rays, or computed tomography to clarify details.
7. Development of a treatment or observation plan — based on the collected data, the doctor will outline treatment steps or recommendations for monitoring your condition.
8. Follow-up and further planning — we determine the timing for repeat visits, criteria for improvement, and signs that require earlier consultation.

If this is your first time consulting about kidney stones, the appointment will focus on a thorough understanding of your symptoms and searching for possible causes. If previous treatment has been ineffective, special attention is given to analyzing the reasons for the lack of effect and adjusting the approach.

This approach helps make the consultation as useful and clear as possible, ensuring a smooth transition to the next stage of diagnostics or therapy tailored to your individual situation.

Preparation for the Appointment

To ensure your urology consultation regarding kidney stones is effective and efficient, it is important to prepare in advance. This will help the doctor ask precise questions and tailor the examination and treatment plan individually.

• Bring a list of all current medications (names, dosages, how you take them)
• Bring results of previous examinations and tests, including kidney ultrasounds, general urine and blood tests
• Write down your main complaints and symptoms: when they started, what worsens or relieves them
• Do not stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your doctor
• If there are special instructions, come on an empty stomach — do not eat or drink for 8–12 hours (unless otherwise advised, clarify when scheduling your appointment)
• Avoid applying cosmetics or creams to the lower back area if an examination is expected
• Prepare questions and topics you want to discuss during the appointment
• If possible, bring medical records of related diseases or other consultations
• Pay attention to any changes in your overall condition and pain level to inform the doctor
• If you have doubts about preparation, clarify details when scheduling or by phone

If you have questions about preparation or specifics of the appointment, it is better to clarify in advance to avoid misunderstandings. Do not change or stop medications without consulting your doctor.

About the Doctor

Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko is a urologist, andrologist, oncologist, and a physician of the first category with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of genitourinary system diseases, including kidney stones, working with patients during initial consultations, recurrent symptoms, and complex cases.

The doctor pays close attention to thorough differential diagnosis and dynamic monitoring for timely therapy adjustments. During the consultation, you will receive a clear explanation of your situation and a plan for the next steps aimed at preserving function and improving quality of life.

Why Patients Choose Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko

When treating kidney stones, Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko offers a highly structured and clear approach. The doctor focuses not only on relieving symptoms but also on identifying the underlying causes, which helps reduce the likelihood of recurrence. He considers every detail — from comorbidities to previous therapies — ensuring a more precise and safe treatment plan. Patients appreciate his clear explanations and the opportunity to discuss their questions without feeling rushed.

• A clear treatment plan broken down into stages: what we do now, what we monitor, and when the next visit is
• Examinations only when indicated, avoiding unnecessary expenses and procedures for the patient
• Consideration of comorbidities and medication compatibility for safe kidney stone treatment
• Monitoring progress and promptly adjusting therapy if there is no effect or if side effects occur
• Review of previous examinations and prescriptions to develop an effective individualized strategy
• Explanation of goals, risks, and treatment alternatives in simple, accessible language without medical jargon
• Ongoing management focusing on prevention of exacerbations and possible complications
• Experience working with complex cases and patients with chronic and combined diseases of the urinary system

This approach helps patients feel protected and well-informed at every stage of treatment. The doctor always aims for a balanced and thoughtful choice of strategy, which is especially important for comprehensive and long-term kidney stone management.

Case Studies

Initial presentation with lower back pain and abnormal test results

A middle-aged patient presented with complaints of intermittent lower back pain and discomfort during urination. It was important to rule out acute inflammatory processes and identify possible causes of the pain syndrome. After a thorough history and necessary examinations, a suspicion of kidney stones was established. The physician developed a treatment and monitoring plan focusing on symptom relief and kidney function control. Over several weeks, symptoms decreased, and regular follow-ups were arranged to assess progress and prevent complications.

Therapy adjustment due to lack of effect from previous treatment

An elderly woman came with recurrent pain and worsening condition despite previously prescribed medications. The doctor conducted a detailed review of her medical history and prescriptions, paying attention to potential drug interactions and comorbidities. It was decided to adjust the treatment plan and add additional monitoring methods. Following dynamic observation, her condition stabilized and unpleasant symptoms became less frequent. The patient received recommendations for ongoing management and prevention.

Chronic disease course with concomitant issues

A middle-aged man with chronic urolithiasis sought evaluation of current treatment effectiveness, considering his comorbid heart disease and diabetes mellitus. The physician took all accompanying factors into account and revised the therapy scheme with attention to safety and potential risks. A comprehensive monitoring plan with regular lab controls was established, which helped achieve stability and prevent exacerbations. The patient continues regular visits to maintain control of the situation.

Symptom exacerbation requiring urgent response

A young man presented with sudden severe pain and urinary dysfunction, necessitating emergency evaluation. The doctor promptly performed an examination and necessary tests to exclude complications and determine the extent of intervention. After stabilizing his condition, a plan for ongoing follow-up and preventive measures was developed. Improvement was observed within a month, with gradual pain reduction and restoration of kidney function.

Second opinion and diagnostic clarification with ambiguous test data

A middle-aged female patient came for consultation with test results that raised questions and did not allow a definitive cause of symptoms to be determined. The doctor conducted a thorough analysis of all data, proposed additional diagnostic steps and alternative management options. This approach prevented unnecessary repeat procedures and allowed focus on truly needed measures. As a result, the patient received a clearer plan for problem resolution and understanding of subsequent steps.

How long does the consultation last?

Usually, a consultation takes from 30 to 60 minutes. Please confirm the exact time when booking.

How to prepare for the appointment?

It is recommended to prepare information about your symptoms, their onset time, and factors affecting your condition in advance.

What should I bring to the appointment?

Bring results of previous examinations, tests, medical records, and a list of medications you are taking.

Do I need to come on an empty stomach?

Usually not required unless otherwise specified during booking.

How many visits are typically needed?

The number of visits depends on your condition and treatment plan; usually, several appointments are needed for monitoring and adjustments.

When can I expect the first results of treatment?

This varies individually depending on the chosen therapy and your body's characteristics.

What should I do if my condition worsens before the appointment?

If you experience severe pain, high fever, or other alarming symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Can the treatment be combined with current medications?

Discuss all medications with your doctor; do not change or stop taking them on your own.

Is it possible to get an online consultation?

Yes, online consultations are available for the initial contact or follow-up monitoring.

Can I come with already completed examinations?

Yes, please bring all test results and examinations for a comprehensive assessment.

Do I need to come for follow-up visits, and how often?

Follow-up visits are scheduled as needed to assess progress and adjust treatment.

Can I get a second opinion?

Yes, the doctor is willing to discuss your concerns and consider alternative options.

What if symptoms return after improvement?

Contact your doctor for evaluation and possible adjustment of your management plan.

What examinations are usually prescribed?

Examinations are selected individually based on indications and may include laboratory tests and instrumental methods.

What does the treatment plan include?

The strategy depends on the cause and accompanying factors; the doctor will explain the options during the consultation.

Can treatment be combined with other medical recommendations?

It is important to discuss this with your doctor to avoid undesired interactions.

What if there is no effect from the prescribed treatment?

Inform your doctor; a plan adjustment or additional investigations may be necessary.

How do I schedule a consultation?

Appointments are made through the clinic’s reception; please specify your preferred time and visit format.