Symptoms & Diagnosis
Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can lodge in the ureter. Classic symptoms include severe, cramping pain in the flank or lower abdomen (renal colic), blood in the urine, nausea, and pain on passing urine. Diagnosis is usually by CT scan or ultrasound plus urine and blood tests.
Singapore's hot climate and dehydration contribute to stone formation.
Treatment Options
- Conservative (watchful waiting): Small stones (under ~5mm) often pass with fluids, pain relief and sometimes medication to relax the ureter.
- ESWL (shockwave lithotripsy): Non-invasive shockwaves break the stone into fragments that pass in urine. No incision.
- Ureteroscopy + laser: A thin scope passed up the urinary tract; the stone is fragmented with laser and removed. Very effective for ureteric and many kidney stones.
- PCNL (percutaneous nephrolithotomy): Keyhole surgery through the back for large kidney stones.
Recovery
- ESWL: Day procedure; fragments pass over days to weeks; mild discomfort and blood in urine are common briefly.
- Ureteroscopy: Often a day procedure; a temporary stent may be placed and removed later.
- PCNL: Short hospital stay; longer recovery than the other options.
Prevention
The single most important measure is staying well hydrated (pale urine). Depending on stone type, your urologist may advise dietary changes (reducing salt, moderating animal protein and oxalate-rich foods) and, in recurrent cases, metabolic testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
See who practises in this field: subspecialty focus, credentials and clinic websites, checked against public records.
Browse urologists →ESWL typically costs S$2,000–S$5,000 privately; ureteroscopy with laser roughly S$6,000–S$12,000+; PCNL more. Subsidised rates apply at public hospitals with referral. These are medically necessary and Medisave-claimable, often Shield-covered.
No. Small stones (generally under 5mm) often pass on their own with plenty of fluids and pain relief. Larger stones, or those causing obstruction, infection or unrelenting pain, need a procedure such as ESWL, ureteroscopy or PCNL.
Yes. Treatment of kidney stones is medically necessary and Medisave-claimable up to surgical limits, often with Integrated Shield Plan coverage. Confirm specifics with the clinic.
Staying well hydrated is the most effective measure, especially in Singapore's heat. Depending on stone type, reducing dietary salt, moderating animal protein, and treating any underlying metabolic cause reduce recurrence. A urologist can advise based on stone analysis.
General information only — not medical advice. Always verify a doctor’s SMC registration and discuss your individual circumstances with a qualified specialist.