Treatment of urolithiasis by surgeon-urologist Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko in the city of Dnipro

When dealing with the treatment of urolithiasis, patients often complain of pain in the lower back or lower abdomen, difficulty urinating, as well as recurring episodes of discomfort or the presence of blood in the urine.

The doctor carefully evaluates the clinical picture, reviews the medical history and symptoms, and, if necessary, orders examinations for an accurate diagnosis and to identify specific features of the condition.

The patient receives a clear and understandable action plan — what to do at the current moment, which tests to undergo, and how to monitor the progress of their condition in the future.

Special attention is given to ongoing monitoring and prevention of exacerbations, which allows timely adjustment of treatment and helps to avoid complications.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience discomfort or disturbances related to the urinary and reproductive systems, it is important to consult a specialist in a timely manner. This is especially crucial if the symptoms reduce your quality of life or recur. You should make an appointment with a urologist-surgeon if, during treatment for urolithiasis (kidney stones), you notice:

• Constant or intermittent pain in the lower back or lower abdomen
• Difficulty or pain when urinating
• Presence of blood in the urine
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Frequent urges to urinate that interfere with work or sleep
• Increased pain during physical activity or changes in body position
• Recurring episodes of acute pain or discomfort in the kidney area
• No improvement or worsening condition after self-care measures or previously prescribed treatment
• Symptoms that have appeared for the first time and cause concern
• Recurrence of symptoms after previous treatment
• Need to clarify the causes of unpleasant sensations or to determine further management
• Situations where symptoms affect daily activities and overall well-being

If you notice several of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time, seeing a specialist will help identify the causes and determine the best steps to improve your condition. The doctor will perform the necessary examinations and suggest an appropriate course of action, taking into account all aspects of your health.

Emergencies or When to See a Doctor Immediately

• Sudden, severe pain in the lower back or abdomen that rapidly worsens
• Sharp difficulty or complete inability to urinate
• Combination of high fever with chills and intense pain in the kidney area
• Appearance of a large amount of blood in the urine within a short time
• General weakness, dizziness, or loss of consciousness along with symptoms

If you experience these symptoms, do not wait for a scheduled appointment — seek medical help urgently. Our clinic offers a home visit service for prompt examination and care.

Causes and Risk Factors in the Treatment of Urolithiasis

Understanding the potential causes of urolithiasis and the factors that increase its risk helps to more accurately select diagnostic tests and subsequent treatment. It is important to pay attention to the condition of the body and possible influencing factors to prevent the progression of the problem.

Main Causes / Mechanisms (Briefly)

• Metabolic disorders leading to the formation of crystals in the urine
• Chronic or recurring urinary tract infections
• Slow urine flow creating conditions conducive to stone formation
• Chronic dehydration reducing urine dilution
• Elevated levels of salts and minerals in the diet or body

Risk Factors

• Age over 40, with a higher likelihood of developing stones
• Hereditary predisposition to urolithiasis
• Sedentary lifestyle and prolonged sitting
• Unbalanced diet high in salt and protein
• Chronic kidney or urinary tract diseases
• Frequent dehydration, especially in hot climates or during physical work
• Use of certain medications affecting metabolism
• Excess weight and associated metabolic disorders

Reversible Causes That Are Important to Exclude

• Acute or chronic urinary tract infections
• Inadequate fluid intake leading to concentrated urine
• Temporary kidney function impairments, for example, after injury or dehydration

Causes and risk factors for urolithiasis can vary for each individual, and accurate assessment requires consultation with a physician and appropriate diagnostic tests.

Diagnostics

Diagnostics in the treatment of urolithiasis is aimed at identifying the cause of symptoms and determining the optimal course of action. It is a comprehensive, step-by-step process that helps reduce the patient’s anxiety.

Diagnostic Approach

• Collecting a detailed medical history, including complaints and disease history
• Conducting a physical examination, including palpation and assessment of the kidneys and abdomen
• Ordering basic laboratory tests of urine and blood to evaluate the overall condition
• If necessary, additional tests based on indications to clarify the location and size of the stones
• Evaluating the results and forming a preliminary plan for further monitoring or treatment
• Discussing the objectives of the examinations and possible therapy options with the patient

Common Indicated Tests

May include:

• Ultrasound examination of the kidneys and bladder
• Radiological imaging methods (e.g., plain urography)
• Computed tomography in complex cases
• Complete and biochemical blood tests
• Analysis of urine components and culture to detect infection

What to Bring to the Appointment

• Results of previous examinations and tests, if available
• List of medications and dietary supplements being taken
• Symptom diary — description of timing and nature of complaints
• Medical records or discharge summaries from other clinics (if available)

Diagnostics of urolithiasis is a sequential process that enables the physician to develop an examination and treatment plan tailored to the individual characteristics of the patient.

Treatment

Treatment of urolithiasis is aimed at reducing symptoms, eliminating causes, and preventing complications. The therapy plan is selected individually, taking into account the patient's condition and the clinical situation.

Therapy Goals

• Reduce painful symptoms and discomfort
• Address the causes of stone formation as indicated
• Improve urinary system function and overall quality of life
• Prevent the development of complications and recurrent exacerbations

Main Treatment Approaches

• May include medication therapy to alleviate symptoms and normalize metabolism
• Use of non-pharmacological methods such as hydration and lifestyle recommendations
• High-tech endoscopic interventions, when indicated, for the removal or fragmentation of stones
• Individualized therapy selection considering comorbidities and patient condition

What the Doctor Does

• Selects and adjusts therapy based on clinical presentation and examination results
• Assesses comorbidities affecting disease progression
• Monitors for possible side effects and modifies the treatment plan if necessary
• Explains to the patient the criteria for evaluating effectiveness and therapy stages
• Coordinates treatment with other specialists when a multidisciplinary approach is required

What to Expect: Plan and Monitoring

• Development of an individualized treatment plan and follow-up recommendations
• Assessment of symptom and condition dynamics during follow-up visits as indicated
• Adjustment of the plan if there is no effect or changes in condition occur
• Regular monitoring to prevent complications and maintain urinary system function

For detailed information on treatment options, please consult with Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko.

Prevention

Prevention in urolithiasis is important to reduce the risk of recurrent stone formation and to maintain the health of the urinary system. The preventive approach is tailored individually, taking into account the patient’s specific characteristics.

Key Primary Prevention Measures

• Monitoring and normalizing fluid intake to maintain adequate hydration
• Balanced nutrition with reduced excessive consumption of salt and protein
• Avoidance of smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
• Maintaining physical activity at a level recommended by a physician
• Managing chronic conditions that affect kidney health and metabolism

Screening and Secondary Prevention / Regular Monitoring

• Regular monitoring of kidney function and urine analysis as indicated
• Discussing planned examinations with a doctor if risk factors are present
• Monitoring symptoms and seeking timely medical attention if they appear
• Adjusting treatment of concomitant diseases under specialist supervision

Practical Tips

• Increase fluid intake throughout the day according to your doctor’s recommendations
• Avoid prolonged dehydration, especially during heat or physical exertion
• Discuss medication adjustments with your doctor if you have chronic conditions
• Try to include moderate physical activity in your daily routine
• Keep a simple symptom diary to discuss with your doctor during visits

Prevention of urolithiasis requires regular attention and individualized recommendations, which are best discussed with a healthcare professional.

Important to Know

Treatment of urolithiasis using endoscopic methods requires accurate diagnosis and understanding of the cause of stone formation. Early assessment of the condition allows selecting the most appropriate strategy and reduces the risk of complications. Often, dynamic monitoring is necessary to adjust the treatment plan and control its effectiveness. The patient’s overall condition, including stress levels, workload, and comorbidities, can influence the course of the disease. Self-medication in such cases can mask symptoms, cause side effects, and delay timely diagnosis.

• It is important to identify the cause of stone formation, not just to relieve symptoms
• Early consultation helps choose safe and effective methods
• Monitoring and adjustment of the treatment plan are often necessary for a stable outcome
• General factors such as lifestyle and chronic diseases affect the course of the disease
• Self-medication can complicate diagnosis and lead to unwanted consequences
• Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko offers a comprehensive approach that takes into account all aspects of the patient’s health

For more detailed information and a complete overview of treatment methods, we recommend visiting the general page on urolithiasis.

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

Before your appointment, if you experience symptoms related to the treatment of urolithiasis (kidney stones), it is important to follow safe measures and avoid worsening your condition. If your condition deteriorates, seek immediate help from Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko.

What You Can Do Before the Appointment

• Note when and how the symptoms began, the circumstances, and what alleviates the condition
• Keep a symptom diary: intensity, onset of pain, and accompanying signs
• Bring a list of all medications and dietary supplements you are taking to the appointment
• Measure your temperature if possible and record the data for the doctor
• Drink enough water to prevent dehydration
• Reduce physical activity and rest when experiencing pain
• Avoid stressful situations that may worsen symptoms
• Stay calm and maintain a positive attitude toward undergoing examination and treatment

What You Should Not Do Before the Appointment

• Do not discontinue or change chronic medications without consulting your doctor
• Do not start taking new medications or remedies without specialist approval
• Do not use unproven folk methods that promise quick improvement
• Do not ignore worsening symptoms or the appearance of new ones
• Do not attempt to relieve pain with strong medications without medical supervision
• Do not delay visiting the doctor if symptoms intensify or if you have urinary problems
• Do not interpret test results or imaging studies without a specialist’s consultation
• Do not exceed recommended fluid intake without your doctor’s consent

If you experience signs of an emergency, seek immediate help from Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko.

How I Can Help as a Doctor with Endoscopic Treatment of Urolithiasis

During a consultation on the endoscopic treatment of urolithiasis (kidney stone disease), I can assist you in the following ways: explaining our approach to identifying the causes and selecting the most appropriate therapy, taking into account your individual health characteristics.

• Analyze your symptoms and medical history to identify possible causes
• Assess the severity of symptoms and detect risks associated with your current condition
• Evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of previously prescribed treatments and adjust the plan if necessary
• Develop a clear plan of action: diagnostics, treatment, and monitoring progress
• Take into account comorbidities and current medications when choosing a treatment strategy
• Provide recommendations on lifestyle and regimen tailored to your specific situation and indications
• Discuss monitoring criteria and explain when it is important to return for reassessment
• Perform differential diagnosis to clarify the causes of symptoms and select the correct approach
• Organize prevention of complications and exacerbations, as well as monitor treatment effectiveness

During the consultation, I aim to ensure a comprehensive approach that considers all aspects of your health. This allows for the creation of the most suitable and convenient treatment plan, which can be adjusted if needed. It is important to understand that informed collaboration with your doctor and timely follow-up help improve quality of life and reduce potential risks.

What Questions Can You Ask a Doctor Regarding Endoscopic Treatment of Urolithiasis

During a consultation about endoscopic treatment of urolithiasis, you can discuss the following issues with Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko:

• Recurring or persistent pain in the lower back or abdominal area
• Difficulty and discomfort during urination
• Presence of blood in the urine or changes in urine color
• Frequent urges to urinate that interfere with work or rest
• Symptoms that worsen or do not resolve after treatment
• How to choose treatment if there are concurrent kidney or bladder conditions
• Seeking a second opinion regarding your diagnosis or treatment
• What to do if symptoms disrupt daily life and activities

In case of sudden severe pain, inability to urinate, high fever with chills, or large amounts of blood in the urine — urgent medical attention is required; do not wait for a scheduled appointment.

Questions You Can Discuss During the Consultation:

• What is happening to me and what could it be?
• Why have these symptoms appeared now?
• How can I tell if it’s related to urolithiasis and not something else?
• What examinations are needed in my particular case?
• Which tests and investigations are essential?
• How should I prepare for the appointment and examinations?
• What treatment options are available and what are their specifics?
• Is it possible to avoid surgery and undergo non-invasive treatment?
• Why isn’t the prescribed treatment effective and what should I do next?
• How long will the treatment last and how often is monitoring needed?
• What signs indicate improvement or deterioration of my condition?
• What should I do if there is an exacerbation or sudden worsening of my health?

During the appointment, the doctor will thoroughly review your case, answer all your questions, and suggest an appropriate action plan. In urgent or complex situations, the specialist will refer you to relevant narrow specialists or order additional examinations.

How the Consultation Proceeds

The consultation is a time for a detailed review of your complaints, assessment of your health status, and development of a plan for further action. The extent of necessary examinations is determined individually and depends on the current situation and indications. It is important not to expect a final diagnosis during the first visit — the initial consultation helps to determine the direction for the next step.

1. Clarification of complaints and visit goals: the doctor finds out what is bothering you, how long the symptoms have been present, and which factors influence them.
2. Taking medical history, including possible risk factors and comorbidities that may affect the condition.
3. Review of previous examinations and treatments, if any — it is recommended to bring documents and a list of medications you are taking.
4. Conducting a physical examination and necessary tests based on indications to assess general condition and identify possible signs.
5. Preliminary discussion: what might be causing the symptoms, what needs to be ruled out, without making a final diagnosis.
6. Developing a plan for examinations, which may include ultrasound, blood and urine tests, and if necessary, CT scans and other methods.
7. Formulating an overall treatment and management plan considering individual characteristics.
8. Discussing monitoring the condition: when a follow-up visit is needed, how to assess changes, and which signs require earlier consultation.

If this is your first visit, the consultation will be especially focused on clarifying symptoms and identifying possible factors. In cases where previously initiated treatment has not led to improvement, more attention is paid to analyzing the causes and adjusting the strategy.

This approach helps make the consultation process comfortable and understandable, as well as providing a foundation for effective further treatment.

Preparation for the Appointment

To ensure that your consultation with the urologist-andrologist is effective and helps to quickly develop a plan for examination and treatment, it is important to prepare in advance. This will help the doctor obtain complete information about your condition.

• Bring a list of all current medications with their names and dosages, if known
• Take the results of previous examinations, images, and tests with you (e.g., ultrasound, general urine test, blood test)
• Write down your main complaints: when symptoms started, what worsens or relieves your condition
• Do not stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your doctor
• Attend the consultation following any dietary or medication recommendations you have received
• If possible, note the time and circumstances when symptoms occur
• If instructed, come fasting — do not eat or drink for 8–12 hours (unless otherwise advised; clarify when making the appointment)
• Avoid applying creams or cosmetics to the area to be examined, if required
• If in doubt, clarify the preparation details by phone when scheduling your appointment

If you have questions or special instructions, it is better to confirm them in advance at the reception. Never change your medication regimen without consulting your doctor.

About the Doctor

Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko is a surgeon-urologist, andrologist, oncologist, and a first-category physician with 20 years of experience. He specializes in the endoscopic treatment of urolithiasis (urinary stone disease) and manages patients with initial diagnoses, recurring symptoms, as well as those for whom previous treatments have been ineffective.

In his practice, he focuses on a thorough analysis of the causes and dynamic monitoring, which helps to adjust the treatment plan as needed. Patients receive a structured and clear action plan aimed at improving quality of life and condition management.

Why Patients Choose Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko

In the treatment of urolithiasis using endoscopic methods, not only accurate diagnosis but also attentive patient care at every stage is crucial. Sergey Nikolaevich bases his work on a detailed analysis of symptoms and medical history, which allows him to identify the true causes and take all risk factors into account. He integrates the results of existing examinations to avoid unnecessary procedures and make therapy as convenient and understandable as possible. Special attention is paid to monitoring the dynamics of the condition and timely adjustment of the treatment plan if side effects appear or the expected results are not achieved. This comprehensive approach helps patients better navigate the therapy process and feel confident in its safe management.

• A clear action plan with defined stages: what to do now, what to monitor, and when to return
• Examinations prescribed only when indicated, avoiding excessive and duplicate procedures
• Consideration of comorbidities and medications for safe and compatible therapy
• Monitoring and adjustment of treatment in case of no effect or the occurrence of side effects
• Review and interpretation of already performed examinations to eliminate unnecessary costs and time
• Explanation of goals and possible risks in simple language without complex terminology
• Emphasis on preventing exacerbations and complications, which helps maintain quality of life
• Experience handling complex and recurrent cases, which is important for chronic disease management

This approach ensures comprehensive and safe patient care. Thanks to a clear plan and regular monitoring, it is possible to respond flexibly to changes in condition and maintain a stable outcome.

Case Studies

Initial Consultation for Lower Back Pain and Changes in Urination

A middle-aged patient presented with complaints of intermittent lower back pain and difficulty urinating. It was important to rule out infectious and neoplastic processes, as well as the presence of stones. A comprehensive evaluation was conducted, including symptom analysis and ordering necessary investigations as indicated. During follow-up, there was a reduction in symptom severity and the condition stabilized. Regular monitoring and maintenance therapy are planned for subsequent stages.

Adjustment of Management in a Patient Whose Treatment Did Not Yield Expected Results

A young man undergoing treatment for urolithiasis complained of persistent pain syndrome and frequent exacerbations. The physician reviewed the medical history and previous prescriptions, adjusted the management approach considering comorbid factors. Thanks to the modified strategy, gradual symptom relief and a decrease in exacerbation frequency were observed. The patient remains under observation with periodic assessments.

Chronic Course with Comorbidities

An elderly female patient presented with a prolonged course of urolithiasis against a background of chronic kidney disease and diabetes mellitus. Particular attention was paid to considering comorbid conditions when selecting the treatment strategy. The physician ensured systematic monitoring of the condition and adjusted therapy according to health changes. Improvement in quality of life and stability of the condition were noted over time. Ongoing monitoring and prevention of potential complications are planned.

Exacerbation with Increased Symptoms — Control and Prevention Plan

A middle-aged female patient was admitted with severe abdominal pain and urinary retention. It was important to promptly assess the condition and exclude complications requiring emergency intervention. Necessary examinations were performed, and a comprehensive therapy plan was prescribed. Subsequently, pain reduction and functional recovery were achieved, and the condition stabilized. An individualized plan for exacerbation prevention and regular monitoring was developed.

Repeat Consultation for Second Opinion and Diagnostic Clarification

A middle-aged man sought consultation to obtain a second opinion on a previously established diagnosis and treatment plan. The physician thoroughly analyzed existing examination results and medical history, and conducted an additional physical examination. This allowed clarification of the main therapeutic directions and risk assessment. As a result, the patient received recommendations for further management and possible monitoring options. Continued observation is coordinated with the primary treating specialist.

How long does the consultation last?

The consultation lasts from 30 to 60 minutes. Please confirm the exact duration when booking.

How should I prepare for the appointment?

It is recommended to write down your complaints, symptoms, the time they appeared, and what worsens or alleviates your condition.

What should I bring to the appointment?

Please bring the results of previous examinations, scans, medical reports, and a list of your current medications.

Do I need to come fasting?

Usually no, unless you were specifically instructed otherwise when booking or during the consultation.

How many visits are usually required?

The number of visits depends on the situation and course of the disease, but usually follow-up is needed at several stages.

When can I expect the first results of the treatment?

First changes are individual and depend on the chosen treatment strategy and patient characteristics.

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

If your condition worsens, seek emergency medical help and do not postpone your visit to the doctor.

Can I combine the treatment with my current medications?

Discuss all medications during the appointment; do not stop or add drugs on your own.

Is it possible to get a consultation online?

Yes, online consultations are available with prior booking and if you have the necessary data.

Can I come with examinations already done?

Yes, bring all your test results—they will help reduce diagnostic time and improve the treatment plan.

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

Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor treatment and may vary depending on your condition.

Can I get a second opinion?

Yes, the consultation includes a review of previous prescriptions and finding the best solution.

What should I do if symptoms return after improvement?

Contact your doctor to clarify the causes and adjust the treatment.

What examinations are usually prescribed?

Examinations are chosen individually and may include laboratory tests and ultrasound depending on the doctor's recommendations.

Can I stop taking medications before the appointment?

Do not stop medications without consulting your doctor—it is important for your safety and accurate diagnosis.

How can I tell if the treatment is working?

During your appointment, the doctor will explain which changes indicate positive progress and when a reassessment is needed.

How long does the full treatment take?

The duration of therapy depends on the cause and course of the disease and is discussed individually.

What should I do before the first appointment?

Prepare a list of symptoms, current test results, and information about the medications you are taking.

How do I make an appointment?

Appointments can be made through the clinic’s website or by phone. Please specify a convenient time for you.