Kidney Function: Post-Surgery Concerns and Care Tips

Q: Kidney Function: Post-Surgery Concerns and Care Tips

Hello： In response to your questions... <br>1. <br>It is recommended that you continue to follow up in the outpatient clinic to see if the fragmented stones are completely expelled. <br>2. <br>Kidney function can be assessed through blood tests, ultrasound, and 24-hour urine test

Kidney function?

Hello Dr.
Hsu, I would like to ask you a few questions: First, I recently underwent extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for left ureteral stones.
Several weeks post-surgery, I occasionally feel twitching in my left kidney and experience lower back pain.
I am unsure if this is psychological or if such symptoms are common after surgery.
Second, I was recently evaluated by a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who indicated that my kidney and bladder functions are somewhat impaired.
I would like to ask Dr.
Hsu how to properly assess kidney and bladder function.
Additionally, how can we maintain our kidney health? What foods should we eat more or less of? I appreciate your guidance on these matters.
Thank you!

Jieshi Huanzhe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/12

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology

Hello: In response to your questions...
1.
It is recommended that you continue to follow up in the outpatient clinic to see if the fragmented stones are completely expelled.
2.
Kidney function can be assessed through blood tests, ultrasound, and 24-hour urine tests.
Bladder function should be evaluated based on symptoms, residual urine volume, and bladder function.
3.
Patients with kidney stones should drink plenty of water (about 2000 to 2500 ml per day), avoid foods that produce high uric acid, and maintain adequate calcium intake to prevent the formation of stones.
Department of Health, Keelung Hospital, Executive Yuan, Hsu Wen-tsang.

Reply Date: 2005/02/12

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding kidney function and post-surgery care. It’s important to address your concerns comprehensively, especially after undergoing a procedure like extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) for kidney stones.

Post-Surgery Symptoms
1. Post-Surgery Discomfort: It is not uncommon to experience some discomfort or sensations in the kidney area after surgery. The feeling of "twitching" or occasional pain in the left kidney could be due to several factors:
- Healing Process: After any surgical procedure, the body goes through a healing phase. This can involve inflammation or irritation in the area, which might manifest as discomfort or unusual sensations.

- Psychological Factors: Anxiety or stress about the surgery and its outcomes can also lead to heightened awareness of bodily sensations, which might be interpreted as pain or discomfort.

- Residual Stones or Complications: Although less likely, it’s important to ensure that no fragments of the stone remain or that no complications have arisen post-surgery. If the discomfort persists or worsens, it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Kidney and Bladder Function Assessment
2. Assessing Kidney and Bladder Function: To evaluate the health of your kidneys and bladder, several tests can be performed:
- Blood Tests: These typically include measuring serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, which provide insight into kidney function.

- Urinalysis: A urinalysis can help detect abnormalities such as proteinuria, hematuria, or signs of infection.

- Imaging Studies: Ultrasound or CT scans can visualize the kidneys and bladder, helping to identify any structural issues or obstructions.

- Specialized Tests: Depending on your symptoms, your doctor might recommend additional tests such as a kidney function test (GFR) or bladder function studies.

Kidney Health Maintenance
3. Maintaining Kidney Health: To support kidney function, consider the following dietary and lifestyle recommendations:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and prevent kidney stones. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily, unless otherwise advised by your doctor.

- Dietary Choices:
- Foods to Include: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, can be beneficial.

- Foods to Limit: Reduce salt intake to help manage blood pressure, and limit foods high in phosphorus and potassium if advised by your healthcare provider. This includes processed foods, certain dairy products, and high-potassium fruits like bananas and oranges.

- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and improve overall health.

- Avoiding Harmful Substances: Limit the use of over-the-counter medications that can harm the kidneys, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.

Conclusion
In summary, while some post-surgical discomfort is normal, persistent or severe symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Regular monitoring of kidney function through blood tests and urinalysis, along with a healthy lifestyle, can significantly contribute to maintaining kidney health. If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you the best in your recovery and health journey!

Similar Q&A

Seeking Guidance for Post-Surgery Complications in Gastrointestinal Health

My mother underwent surgery for duodenal bleeding on February 21. Since then, her abdomen has been distended, she has no appetite, and her overall condition is very weak. She is still in the hospital. She has hypertension and poor kidney function (blood urea nitrogen 102, creatin...

Dr. Yang Peizhen reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If the surgical wound is healing well and intestinal motility is satisfactory, then the patient can start eating. However, if there is persistent abdominal distension and lack of appetite, it is essential to first assess the intestinal motility. Additionally, when resuming...

Post-Kidney Removal Care: Diet, Recovery, and Cost Insights

Hello Doctor: My father is experiencing severe edema due to kidney issues. During his follow-up appointment, the attending physician informed us that he will need to undergo surgery to remove the kidney next week. I would like to ask the doctor: (1) Besides drinking plenty of wat...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) After kidney surgery, family members should be mindful not to overexert themselves. It is important to manage any issues related to blood sugar, blood pressure, or heart conditions. A balanced diet is essential, particularly avoiding excessive salt intake. Additionally,...

Understanding Post-Surgery Kidney Failure: A Case Study in Diabetes

My mother-in-law, who is 70 years old and has had diabetes for 8 years, recently underwent hip surgery. However, post-surgery, she developed renal failure. The doctor informed us that she would need dialysis, even though she did not require it before the surgery. Why did she need...

Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, diabetes can potentially lead to renal dysfunction. General anesthesia during surgery may also contribute to the deterioration of kidney function. Additionally, the use of analgesics, antibiotics, or conditions such as anemia, continuous bleeding, and shock can result in r...

Essential Guide to Kidney Transplant: Pre and Post-Transplant Care

Hello, I understand you have questions about kidney transplantation. Before and after a kidney transplant, there are several important considerations regarding diet and lifestyle. Before Kidney Transplant: 1. Diet: Focus on a balanced diet low in sodium, phosphorus, and ...

Dr. Yang Zhangzhi reply Urology
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that.