Hi, I'm Dr. Smith, a urologist with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary tract in both men and women.

It's common to have questions about ureteral stents and their potential side effects. Let's delve into that:

## Ureteral Stent Side Effects

A ureteral stent is a small, flexible tube placed in the ureter, the tube that connects your kidney to your bladder. It helps urine flow from the kidney to the bladder if the ureter is blocked or injured. While ureteral stents are crucial for many patients, they can cause some side effects.

It's important to understand that not everyone experiences all of these side effects, and the severity can vary widely from person to person.

### Common Side Effects:

These side effects are generally mild and tend to resolve on their own once the stent is removed:

* Urinary Urgency and Frequency: This is perhaps the most common side effect. You may feel a frequent and sudden urge to urinate, even if your bladder isn't full.
* Painful Urination (Dysuria): Some people experience a burning or stinging sensation when urinating. This is often related to irritation of the bladder or urethra by the stent.
* Blood in the Urine (Hematuria): A small amount of blood in the urine is common, especially in the first few days after stent placement or removal.
* Pelvic or Flank Pain: Many people describe this pain as a dull ache or a sharp, stabbing pain in the lower back, side, or abdomen. The pain can be intermittent and may worsen with urination.
* Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Stents can sometimes make it easier for bacteria to travel up the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection.

### Less Common Side Effects:

While less frequent, these side effects can be bothersome and may require medical attention:

* Incontinence: The stent can irritate the bladder and make it difficult to control urination, leading to leakage.
* Stent Migration: In rare cases, the stent may move out of its intended position.
* Stent Encrustation: Over time, mineral deposits can build up on the stent, which can irritate the urinary tract and increase the risk of infection and blockage.
* Allergic Reaction: While rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to the stent material.

### Managing Side Effects:

Your doctor will discuss ways to manage side effects, which may include:

* Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with pain and discomfort. Your doctor may prescribe stronger medication if needed.
* Increased Fluid Intake: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out the urinary system and reduce irritation.
* Dietary Changes: Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can minimize bladder irritation.
* Medications: Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent or treat urinary tract infections or antispasmodic medications to reduce bladder spasms.

### When to Seek Medical Attention:

It's crucial to contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

* **Inability to Urinate or Decreased Urine Output:** This could signal a blockage in the urinary tract.
* Severe Pain: Pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter medication may indicate a complication.
* High Fever or Chills: These symptoms could indicate a serious infection.
* Large Blood Clots in the Urine: Passing large blood clots can be concerning and warrant immediate attention.

Remember, this information is for general knowledge and should not be considered a substitute for personalized medical advice. If you have concerns about ureteral stent side effects, please consult your doctor. They can provide the most accurate and relevant information based on your individual circumstances.
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Be aware of these common side effects from a ureteral stent:Discomfort and pain, usually experienced as a dull feeling in your sides and groin, and can get worse while you are urinating.Blood in your urine. ... A feeling of fullness and a constant need to urinate (urgency and frequency).More items...read more >>