Discomfort After Double J Stent Placement: Causes and Solutions

Q: Discomfort After Double J Stent Placement: Causes and Solutions

Alice： Hello, having a medical catheter in your body can certainly lead to some discomfort. <br>It is recommended to drink plenty of water to fill the bladder, which can help prevent the catheter from irritating the bladder wall, thereby alleviating these symptoms. <br>Additional

Discomfort after the placement of a double J stent?

I had a double J stent placed due to urinary stones.
For the first 7 days post-surgery, I experienced no significant issues or discomfort.
However, after 7 days, I began to feel sharp pain when walking and sitting, along with hematuria and blood clots during urination, as well as a dull ache.
The only position that feels comfortable is lying down.
Unfortunately, I cannot go to the hospital to have the stent removed due to the New Year holiday.
I would like to know why I am experiencing these symptoms.
I went to the emergency room for an X-ray, and the doctor said there was no problem with the double J stent.
They only prescribed me medication to alleviate urethral discomfort, but my symptoms have not improved at all.

Alice, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/14

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Alice: Hello, having a medical catheter in your body can certainly lead to some discomfort.
It is recommended to drink plenty of water to fill the bladder, which can help prevent the catheter from irritating the bladder wall, thereby alleviating these symptoms.
Additionally, the catheter may cause frequent urination, hematuria, and discomfort.
Typically, these issues improve after the catheter is removed.
Note: Ureteral catheters are usually placed for 4 to 12 weeks.
If you have any further questions, feel free to ask, and we can discuss and research together.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, the Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/02/14

More Info

Experiencing discomfort after the placement of a double J stent (also known as a ureteral stent) is not uncommon, and it can be attributed to several factors. The stent is designed to keep the ureter open, allowing urine to flow from the kidney to the bladder, especially in cases of ureteral obstruction due to kidney stones. While many patients tolerate the stent well, others may experience complications or discomfort, particularly after the initial recovery period.

Causes of Discomfort
1. Irritation of the Urinary Tract: The presence of the stent can irritate the lining of the urinary tract. This irritation can lead to symptoms such as pain, urgency, frequency of urination, and hematuria (blood in urine). The stent can also cause spasms in the ureter, leading to sharp pain.

2. Infection: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can occur after stent placement, especially if there is any obstruction or if bacteria are introduced during the procedure. Symptoms of a UTI include increased urgency, frequency, burning sensation during urination, and sometimes fever.

3. Stent Migration or Displacement: Although your X-ray showed no issues with the stent, it is possible for stents to migrate or become displaced, which can cause pain and discomfort. If the stent is not positioned correctly, it may irritate surrounding tissues.

4. Blood Clots: The presence of blood clots in the urine can be a result of irritation from the stent or from the procedure itself. This can lead to additional discomfort and may require further evaluation.

5. Muscle Spasms: The bladder and ureter can undergo spasms due to the presence of the stent, leading to discomfort when sitting or walking.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort. However, if you have any contraindications to NSAIDs, consult your healthcare provider for alternatives.

2. Hydration: Increasing fluid intake can help flush out the urinary system and may reduce irritation caused by the stent. Aim for at least 2-3 liters of water daily unless otherwise advised by your physician.

3. Avoiding Irritants: Stay away from caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, as these can irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms.

4. Follow-Up Care: Since you are experiencing significant discomfort, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. If you cannot visit the hospital due to the holiday, consider reaching out to a urologist for advice on managing your symptoms until you can have the stent removed.

5. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the presence of blood in your urine, the severity of pain, and any new symptoms that may arise. If you experience fever, chills, or worsening pain, seek medical attention immediately.

6. Stent Removal: If discomfort persists and significantly impacts your quality of life, discuss the possibility of early stent removal with your healthcare provider. Stents are typically removed after a few weeks, but in some cases, they may need to be taken out sooner if complications arise.

Conclusion
While discomfort after double J stent placement can be distressing, understanding the potential causes can help you manage your symptoms effectively. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider and seek timely medical attention if your symptoms worsen or do not improve. Remember, your comfort and health are paramount, and addressing these issues promptly can lead to better outcomes.

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