How do kidneys function in the body. What are the benefits of kidney cleansing. Which natural remedies can effectively cleanse the kidneys. How can kidney stones be prevented naturally. What role does hydration play in kidney health. How do certain foods impact kidney function. Why is maintaining kidney health crucial for overall well-being.

The Vital Role of Kidneys in Body Function

Our kidneys are remarkable organs that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Each day, these small but mighty organs process approximately 200 quarts of blood, eliminating excess water, waste products, and toxins. This continuous filtration process ensures that our body functions smoothly, preventing the buildup of harmful substances that could lead to various health issues.

When kidneys fail to remove toxins and waste efficiently, it can result in a range of problems, including:

• Exhaustion
• Stomach pain
• Headaches
• Water retention
• Kidney stones

Kidney stones, in particular, are a common issue affecting 10-15% of American adults and even children as young as five. These masses of crystals or unprocessed minerals can grow to significant sizes, causing severe discomfort and potentially damaging kidney function.

Understanding Kidney Stones: Causes and Symptoms

Kidney stones can develop due to various factors, including:

• Dehydration
• Excessively acidic urine
• Urinary tract infections
• Buildup of waste and toxins in the kidneys

Recognizing the symptoms of kidney stones is crucial for early detection and treatment. Common signs include:

• Severe lower back, abdominal, or urinary tract pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Persistent urge to urinate
• Chills or sweating

The intensity of these symptoms can vary depending on the size of the stones. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort in your sides, it’s advisable to consult a urologist. Early diagnosis can lead to easier and more effective treatment.

The Importance of Kidney Cleansing for Overall Health

Regularly cleansing your kidneys offers numerous health benefits, including:

1. Improved kidney function
2. Reduced bloating
3. Enhanced nutrient absorption
4. Increased energy levels
5. Lower risk of urinary tract infections
6. Decreased likelihood of kidney stone formation
7. Balanced hormones
8. Clearer skin

By incorporating kidney-cleansing practices into your routine, you can support your body’s natural detoxification processes and maintain optimal urinary health.

Natural Remedies for Kidney Cleansing

There are several natural methods to cleanse your kidneys and promote their optimal function. Here are eight effective options:

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a powerful ally in kidney health. It helps prevent oxidative stress on the kidneys by increasing antioxidant levels in the body. Additionally, it aids in balancing blood sugar levels and reducing blood pressure, creating an ideal environment for kidney function.

The citric acid in apple cider vinegar can also help dissolve kidney stones. Regular consumption of diluted apple cider vinegar can effectively flush out toxins from the kidneys, promoting overall urinary health.

2. Kidney Beans

True to their name, kidney beans are beneficial for kidney health. Their shape resembles that of kidneys, and they’re packed with nutrients that support urinary tract function. Rich in vitamin B, fiber, and various minerals, kidney beans help cleanse the kidneys and flush out waste and toxins effectively.

3. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a natural acidic substance that can increase citrate levels in urine, thereby discouraging the formation of kidney stones. It acts as a natural filter for the blood, helping to flush out toxins and waste products.

For those prone to kidney stones, daily consumption of diluted lemon juice can reduce the rate of stone formation and even help dissolve existing calcium oxalate crystals, which are the most common component of kidney stones. Combining lemon juice with olive oil can be particularly effective in facilitating the smooth passage of stones.

Hydration and Kidney Health: The Watermelon Effect

Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining kidney health, and certain foods can contribute significantly to this effort. Watermelon, for instance, is an excellent choice for kidney cleansing.

Watermelon acts as a mild diuretic, helping to hydrate and cleanse the kidneys. Its high water content supports overall hydration, while its rich lycopene content improves cardiovascular health, which in turn benefits kidney function.

This refreshing fruit also contains substantial amounts of potassium salts, which help regulate urine acidity and prevent stone formation. Regular consumption of watermelon can be a delicious way to support your kidney health naturally.

Power-Packed Fruits for Kidney Cleansing

In addition to watermelon, other fruits can play a significant role in maintaining kidney health and preventing issues like kidney stones. Let’s explore two more powerful options:

5. Pomegranate

Pomegranate is a nutrient-dense fruit that offers multiple benefits for kidney health. Both the juice and seeds of pomegranates are rich in potassium, making them effective in combating kidney stones. The high potassium content helps lower urine acidity, which can prevent stone formation.

Moreover, pomegranate’s astringent properties can curtail the crystallization of minerals in the kidneys. Regular consumption of pomegranate can aid in flushing out toxins and waste from the kidneys, promoting overall urinary tract health.

6. Dates

Dates are another fruit that can be particularly beneficial for kidney health when consumed correctly. Soaking dates in water for 24 hours and then consuming them (after removing the seeds) can be an effective method for dissolving and flushing out kidney stones.

Dates are rich in fiber, which helps reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. Additionally, the magnesium content in dates contributes to kidney cleansing. This natural remedy can be a sweet and easy addition to your kidney health regimen.

Herbal Remedies for Kidney Cleansing

Herbs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support kidney health. Two particularly effective herbs for kidney cleansing are basil and dandelion.

7. Basil

Basil is more than just a flavorful herb; it’s also an effective diuretic that can aid in removing kidney stones and improving overall kidney function. The essential oils and acetic acid in basil can help break down kidney stones, facilitating their smooth removal from the body.

Additionally, basil has been shown to lower uric acid levels in the blood, which can further support kidney health. As an added benefit, basil also acts as a natural pain reliever, which can be helpful for those experiencing discomfort from kidney issues.

8. Dandelion

Dandelion, often considered a pesky weed, is actually a powerful kidney tonic. Consuming tea made from dried organic dandelion or fresh dandelion root can effectively cleanse the kidneys. This herb not only supports kidney function but also stimulates bile production, which aids digestion and minimizes the amount of waste reaching the kidneys.

Incorporating dandelion tea into your daily routine can be a simple yet effective way to support your kidney health naturally.

The Role of Cranberry Juice in Urinary Health

While not included in the original list of eight remedies, cranberry juice deserves a special mention for its benefits to urinary health. Cranberry juice has long been recognized for its ability to support kidney function and prevent urinary tract infections.

The high content of antioxidants and compounds like proanthocyanidins in cranberry juice can help prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection. Regular consumption of unsweetened cranberry juice can be an excellent addition to your kidney cleansing routine.

Implementing a Kidney-Friendly Lifestyle

While these natural remedies can be highly effective in cleansing and supporting kidney health, it’s important to remember that they should be part of a broader kidney-friendly lifestyle. Here are some additional tips to maintain optimal kidney function:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush toxins from your system.
• Maintain a balanced diet: Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting sodium and processed foods.
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps maintain healthy blood pressure and improves overall circulation, benefiting kidney function.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine: Both can act as diuretics and may strain the kidneys if consumed in excess.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of kidney disease.
• Manage underlying health conditions: Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can impact kidney health, so it’s important to keep them under control.

By incorporating these lifestyle habits along with the natural remedies discussed earlier, you can create a comprehensive approach to kidney health that supports your overall well-being.

Understanding the Limitations of Natural Remedies

While natural remedies can be highly effective for maintaining kidney health and preventing issues like kidney stones, it’s crucial to understand their limitations. These methods are primarily preventative and supportive measures, not replacements for medical treatment in cases of severe kidney problems or diagnosed conditions.

If you experience persistent symptoms of kidney issues or have a history of kidney problems, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include a combination of medical interventions and natural remedies.

Remember that everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not be as effective for another. It’s always best to approach kidney health holistically, considering both traditional medical advice and natural supportive measures.

The Future of Kidney Health: Emerging Research and Innovations

As our understanding of kidney function and urinary health continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new ways to prevent kidney stones and improve overall kidney health. Some exciting areas of study include:

• Genetic factors influencing kidney stone formation
• The role of gut microbiome in kidney health
• Advanced imaging techniques for early detection of kidney issues
• Personalized nutrition plans based on individual risk factors
• Novel medications to prevent stone formation and support kidney function

These ongoing research efforts promise to bring new insights and innovative approaches to kidney care in the coming years. As we await these advancements, maintaining a kidney-friendly lifestyle and utilizing natural remedies can serve as a proactive approach to supporting your urinary health.

In conclusion, our kidneys play a vital role in maintaining overall health, and taking steps to support their function is crucial for long-term well-being. By incorporating natural cleansing methods, staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, we can significantly reduce the risk of kidney stones and other urinary issues. Remember to always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice, especially if you have existing kidney conditions or concerns. With the right approach, you can keep your kidneys healthy and functioning optimally for years to come.

8 Easy Ways to Cleanse Your Kidneys

The kidneys are amazing little organs. Each day, they process about 200 quarts of blood, getting rid of excess water and waste products, removing toxins and keeping the body functioning smoothly. If the kidneys are not able to remove toxins and waste from the body, they will build up in the body and hinder the normal function of kidneys, liver and other organs, resulting in exhaustion, stomach pain, headaches, water retention and other problems. Buildup of toxins and waste also may lead to kidney stones, a mass of crystals or unprocessed minerals which can grow to the size of a golf ball. Kidney stones affect 10-15 percent of American adults, but also may be found in children as young as five.

Kidney stones causes and symptoms

There are many causes of kidney stones, such as dehydration, excessively acidic urine, urinary tract infections, buildup of waste and toxins in the kidneys, among others. The symptoms of kidney stones include excessive lower back, abdominal or urinary tract pain which may be sharp, mild or excruciating, severe vomiting or feeling nauseated, persistent urge to pass urine, and constant chills or sweating. While the symptoms vary depending on the size of the stones, unceasing pain and discomfort on the sides is a good reason to see a urologist. Kidney stones are easily curable if diagnosed early.

Why you should cleanse your kidneys

There are several reasons why you should flush out toxins and waste from your body. For instance, cleansing your kidneys improves their function and reduces bloating. Likewise, cleansing your kidney improves your ability to process certain foods, absorb nutrients and convert food to energy, preventing fatigue. Flushing out waste and toxins prevents potential infection and reduce the risk for bladder problems. Similarly, cleansing the kidneys reduces the chances of having painful kidney stones, corrects hormonal imbalances and prevents skin breakouts such as acne, eczema and rashes.

Below are 8 easy ways to cleanse your kidneys

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is effective in preventing oxidative stress of the kidneys. It increases the levels of antioxidants in the body, balances blood sugar levels and reduces blood pressure, creating optimum conditions for kidney health. Apple cider vinegar contains citric acid which dissolves kidney stones. Frequent intake of apple cider vinegar also flushes out toxins from the kidneys.

2. Kidney Beans

Kidney beans not only resemble the kidneys but also remove waste and toxins from the kidney and flush out kidney stones effectively. Kidney beans are rich in Vitamin B, fiber and several minerals which help to clean the kidney and boost the function of the urinary tract.

3. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is naturally acidic and increases citrate levels in urine, hence discouraging the formation of kidney stones. Lemon juice also filters blood and flushes out wastes and other toxins. Daily intake of diluted lemon juice reduces the rate of kidney stone formation and dissolves calcium oxalate crystals, which is the most common constituent of kidney stones. For people with kidney stones, combining lemon with olive oil ensures smooth passage of the stones.

4. Watermelon

Watermelon is a mild diuretic. It hydrates and cleanses the kidneys. It is also rich in lycopene, which improves cardiovascular health and ensures well-functioning kidneys. Watermelon also has large quantities of potassium salts which regulate acidity of urine and prevents stone formation. In fact, eating watermelon regularly is great for kidney health.

5. Pomegranate

Both the juice and seeds of pomegranate contain large amounts of potassium and therefore are effective in removing kidney stones. Potassium lowers acidity of urine, prevents stone formation because of its astringent properties, curtails crystallization of minerals, and flushes out toxins and waste from the kidneys.

6. Basil

Basil is an effective diuretic. It removes kidney stones and improves kidney functioning. Basil also lowers the level of uric acid in blood and improves kidney health. Its ingredients such as essential oils and acetic acid break down kidney stones and allow for smooth removal. Basil is also a pain killer.

7. Dates

When dates are soaked in water for 24 hours and then consumed after seeds are removed, they are effective in dissolving and flushing out kidney stones. Dates are rich in fiber, helping to reduce the risk of kidney stones. The magnesium ingredient in dates also cleanses the kidneys.

8. Dandelion

Consuming tea made using dried organic dandelion or fresh dandelion root (pulled from the ground) helps to cleanse the kidneys. Dandelion is a kidney tonic, but also stimulates bile production to improve digestion and minimize the waste reaching the kidneys.

Another effective cleansing agent for the kidneys is cranberry juice which supports the urinary tract, fights urinary tract infections and removes excess calcium oxalate. Beets and their juices contain Betaine which increases urine acidity, prevents build-up of struvite and calcium phosphate and reduces the chances of kidney stone formation. Other effective cleansing agents are coconut water, cucumber juice and cherries. For more information on preventing and treating kidney problems, visit the site, Advanced Urology Institute.

Advanced Urology Institute is the largest urology practice in Florida. We are dedicated to improving the lives of our patients by providing excellent Patient-Centered Care. Set an appointment or visit our closest office near you.

Does cranberry juice actually prevent UTIs?

Women have been told for years that drinking cranberry juice can prevent and cure urinary tract infections (UTIs). But is it really true? Recent studies suggest it has limited benefits.

A UTI is an infection that occurs anywhere in the urinary tract. Infections can happen in the kidneys (where urine is created), the ureters (where urine travels from the kidneys), the bladder (where urine is stored) and the urethra (where urine leaves the body). These infections are all usually caused by bacteria.

UTIs are most common among women. In fact, experts believe as many as 60% of women will get a UTI in their lifetime compared to only 10% of men. The reason for that has to do with male and female anatomy, as women’s urethras as more susceptible to bacteria entering the urinary tract. Symptoms can include pelvic pain near your groin, urgent and frequent urination, cloudy or milky pee, a burning sensation when you pee, or lower back pain.

Why cranberry juice?

Cranberry juice, extracts and supplements are often recommended to prevent or cure UTIs. That’s because there are special ingredients in cranberries called A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs) that can prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall.

In theory, this could proactively stop UTIs from happening or help you recover from one faster. But studies have found the benefits to be mixed. For example, one study found that women who drank cranberry juice experienced fewer UTIs compared to women in a control group who were given a placebo. But another study found that drinking cranberry juice made no difference. Experts believe that there may not be enough of the A-type proanthocyanidins for cranberry juice to be effective.

So what is the most effective way to treat a UTI?

Doctors typically prescribe oral antibiotics to treat urinary tract infections. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help with burning and discomfort while the antibiotics are still at work.

Home remedies

While home remedies for urinary tract infections shouldn’t replace treatment by a doctor, here are some things you can do to help prevent UTIs and improve your symptoms.

• Good hygiene – The best way to avoid UTIs is to practice good hygiene and prevent bacteria from entering the urinary tract. Urinate often, and try to completely empty your bladder so bacteria can exit.
• Stay hydrated – Drink lots of fluids, especially water, which will flush out the urinary tract system without irritating it.
• Cranberry juice – While there’s no consensus on whether cranberry juice works on UTIs, most experts say it doesn’t hurt. Just make sure to drink it in moderation and choose 100% cranberry juice. Avoid cranberry cocktail, which is full of sugar and contains little actual cranberry.
• Cranberry supplements – Since juice is high in sugar, recent guidelines from the Journal of Urology recommend taking cranberry supplements instead. There are a variety of products on the market, so check that it contains at least 36 mg of PACs (the beneficial ingredient).

When should I talk to a doctor about UTI symptoms?

If you’re experiencing pelvic symptoms or feel achy, tired and feverish, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor right away.

Did you know that you can get treatment for a urinary tract infection online 24/7 through Virtuwell? Our certified nurse practitioners will review your symptoms and send you a personalized treatment. Since most UTIs are treated with antibiotics, we’ll send a prescription to the pharmacy of your choice, and you’ll be feeling better in no time.

Sanitation of the urethra | Dobromed

Among the many urological manipulations performed by a doctor, urethral lavage is perhaps the most popular. A practicing urologist has to perform this procedure several times a day. Despite this, men always have a lot of questions regarding the procedure. The washing technique has been worked out for a long time and to the smallest detail since the days of rubber catheters and Janet’s reusable glass syringes. The urethra was washed with all known antiseptics. Today, not all of them are recognized as effective. The goals pursued by washing the urethra in men are the prevention of genital infections and the treatment of inflammation.

• prophylactic urethral lavage;
• urethral lavage for self-medication;
• consequences of self-washing of the urethra;
• therapeutic instillations into the urethra;
• preparations for washing the urethra;
• Is it painful to do urethral lavage.

Urethral lavage for prevention

Sexually active men periodically face the need for emergency post-coital prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. Unprotected sex leaves about a couple of hours for the urgent use of an antiseptic, which will help reduce the risk of developing and spreading the infection. The time allotted for washing the urethra with Miramistin is limited. The causative agents of syphilis, gonorrhea, ureaplasmosis, mycoplasmosis, by the end of the second hour from entering the urethra, penetrate into the cells of its endothelium and penetrate further into the blood. For prophylactic instillation in pharmacies, Miramistin is sold in vials with a urological nozzle. Special preparation for prophylaxis is not required. The drug in a volume of 2-3 milliliters is injected into the urethra, in which it is kept for 2-3 minutes. Both drugs are chlorine-containing antiseptics with a powerful oxidizing effect. Their use is limited by possible allergic reactions. With frequent use, chemical burns of the mucous membrane of the urethra are possible. Professional emergency prevention of genital infections is also possible. It is performed by a urologist using a urological catheter and silver solutions. They are active against the vast majority of varieties of venereal disease pathogens. The main condition for the effectiveness of such professional prevention is to seek specialized help earlier. That is, within two hours from the moment of unprotected intercourse.

Self-treatment urethral lavage

Urethral lavage at home is possible no further than its anterior segment. Therefore, engaging in instillations for medicinal purposes on their own is not only pointless, but also dangerous. No washing of the urethra with potassium permanganate or even miramistin is able to cope with the inflammatory process in the posterior sections of the canal. No matter how proven the solution is, washing the urethra on its own is unlikely to be able to push it beyond the first six to seven centimeters. This means that the posterior urethra will be infected. And then bacterial, viral, protozoal agents can easily begin to travel through the genitals and blood. Causing prostatitis, vesiculitis, orchiepididymitis or visceral lesions. It is also worth remembering that the same chlorhexidine or miramistin are absolutely indifferent to such pathogens of STIs as chlamydia. The latter are quite resistant to instillations and can tolerate adverse conditions, forming foci of chronic infection. This only creates the illusion of activity in the patient, threatening to transfer him into the category of traumatic patients with burns or canal injuries.

Consequences of washing the urethra on your own

Complications of washing the urethra at home on your own can be very diverse:

• burns of the mucous membrane up to the formation of strictures (narrowings) of the urethra, which impede urination;
• the spread of infectious agents up to the generalization of the infection; the formation of the carriage of the infection;
• erectile dysfunction;
• infertility;
• injuries of the urethra and bleeding from it.

Consequences of a thoughtless attitude to the use of drugs subsequently cost much more than high-quality treatment from a competent specialist.

Therapeutic instillations into the urethra

It happens that urethritis becomes chronic, often aggravated. Urination disorders, their pain begin to significantly reduce the patient’s quality of life. Antibiotics work, but the next relapse again forces the patient to change the drug or combine them. This leads to an increase in the cost of the treatment itself and makes its long-term results doubtful. Since with such tactics, there is a high probability of cultivating a microbial flora in your genitourinary tract that is resistant to almost everything. In such a situation, a doctor can come to the rescue, offering a simple but effective method. In daily practice, a urologist has to perform not only washing the anterior urethra. Instillations with medicinal solutions are included in the complex therapy of urethritis of various origins. The meaning of the total washing of the urethra becomes clear if you know something about the features of the settlement of microbes in hollow tubes. Which, in fact, is the urethra. Possessing an affinity for the epithelial cells of the inner lining of the canal, bacteria do not settle on it in groups or individuals, but build up a bacterial film. This commonwealth allows bacterial cells to evade antibiotic therapy, which destroys only the substrate or outer film layer. Allowing the main colony to survive and multiply further. This phenomenon is associated with the recurrent course of many urogenital infections and the insensitivity of bacterial agents to antibiotics of many groups.

Urethral flushing preparations

Microorganisms such as chlamydia exhibit the properties of a virus and bacteria at the same time, being an intracellular parasite. Therefore, after the introduction of chlamydia into the endothelium of the urogenital tract, it is not so easy to get them out of there. And they are not susceptible to antibiotics of many classes. This is where the urethral lavage with collargol comes to the aid of the urologist. A 2% solution containing silver and a protective protein is administered by the doctor at the time of admission. For this purpose, a 40 cm Nelaton catheter is used. It is sterile and disposable, made of plastic that does not cause allergies and irritation of the mucosa. A 150 mm disposable syringe is also used, into which the solution is drawn and which creates the necessary pressure for its administration. Other drug options for the procedure can be: protargol, combinations of dioxidine and protargol, dimexide and dioxidine. The drugs have a local antiseptic effect plus have an exfoliating effect. Helping to get rid of cells affected by intracellular pathogens or bacterial film. Washing with protargol or collargol is effective for trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, mycoplasmosis. Washing with Uro-Gial of the urethra is more often used for combined pathologies of the urinary tract. Such a drug may require persistent interstitial cystitis in combination with lesions of the urethra. With this development of events, both the urethra and the bladder are washed.

• Collargol, a 2% solution of silver in glycerin, is used for a wide range of infections. It inhibits the growth of bacterial agents, viruses, protozoa. Has high efficiency;
• silver proteinate or colloidal silver is known as protargol. The aqueous solution is characterized by antiseptic, astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. The effect is tied to the binding of silver ions to the genetic material of pathogens. Washing the urethra with protargol makes it possible to create a protective film instead of exfoliated endothelium (due to silver precipitation of proteins). These two drugs are the main antiseptics, which are as safe as possible and widely active;
• dimexide or dimethyl sulfoxide exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Penetrates through biological membranes and improves the penetration of other substances to endothelial cells. Therefore, they are used in combination with silver preparations (collargol and protargol). It is used on its own more rarely;
• dioxidine – quinoxaline hydroxymethyl. Its solutions exhibit broad bactericidal activity. Of the benefits – the absence of irritation of the mucous membranes and skin. Most often, a 1% solution is used. Suitable for sharing with dimexide.

The answer to this question is quite expected. This is only part of a set of measures to get rid of inflammation of the urethra against the background of genital infections. They don’t need to be used daily. Enough 2-3 procedures per week. This will make the instillations as useful as possible, and will allow you not to get side effects and complications. This frequency of procedures allows the urethra to fully recover.

• inexpensive;
• does not require the use of reusable instruments;
• allows to overcome the antibiotic resistance of bacterial films;
• allows you to shorten the time and cost of treatment;
• makes it possible to treat chronic, persistently recurrent inflammatory changes;
• combines the advantages of preventive and therapeutic methods;
• avoids multiple courses of antibiotics and prevents the development of multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Is it painful to do urethral lavage

An experienced urologist performs such procedures not only correctly, but quickly and painlessly. After all, in his hands are skills developed over the years. The mode of instillation must be chosen correctly, and the patient is not allergic to the selected solution. A slight burning sensation after washing the urethra, due more to damage to the mucosa by the main inflammatory process, is all that he can feel. This is a clear advantage of a catheter in the hands of a professional. Even using all the tools and materials, a person without experience can not only scratch, but even more grossly violate the integrity of the urethra. Causing not only pain, but also bleeding. Before the procedure, it is better for the patient to urinate. Indeed, after the introduction of the drug, urination is recommended to be delayed for half an hour or an hour. Before inserting the catheter, the doctor treats the head and external opening of the urethra with an antiseptic. After that, a sterile catheter is inserted into the urethra. Its free end is attached to a disposable syringe with medicine, which is slowly injected into the urethra. Next, the catheter is removed. Pain relief during or after the procedure is not required. It should be remembered that all pain reactions or allergic manifestations en ongoing procedures or medications should be reported to your doctor immediately. Also, do not hide about episodes of allergies or other intolerance to drugs that have been noted previously. This will allow the patient to achieve maximum safety, and the doctor – to choose the most gentle and correct treatment regimen. If discomfort or allergies appear after independent home manipulations, it makes sense to immediately seek advice from a urologist. The same recommendations apply to canal injuries. Thus, if washing the urethra for therapeutic purposes is required, it is advisable to contact a venereologist or urologist. It is better to do this in a clinic equipped with a laboratory, so as not to delay either competent diagnosis or effective treatment.

what is it, preparation, how is it done, contraindications – health articles

Urethrocystoscopy, or cystourethroscopy, is an endoscopic examination, that is, a visual examination of the walls of the urethra, bladder and ureter outlets using optics in order to detect pathology. It is a diagnostic procedure, however, it makes it possible for targeted sampling of biomaterial (simultaneous biopsy) when pathological foci are detected and drugs are administered.

The study allows not only to examine the bladder cavity, but also to evaluate the functions of each kidney separately by the nature of the ureter discharged from the right and left mouths, since they open into the bladder and are well visualized during the procedure. It can be used as an auxiliary method for diagnosing prostate adenoma – medical indications for cystoscopy are quite wide.

When is it held?

The procedure can be prescribed at any age and is the main diagnostic method for many diseases of the genitourinary system, when safer research methods (ultrasound, radiation, magnetic resonance) do not provide the necessary information. If stones are found, they can be removed using special forceps or electroresection, and the neoplasms are sent for histological examination.

In the presence of ulcerative lesions of the mucosa, electrocoagulation (cauterization) of the damaged areas can be done.

In case of tumors and inflammatory diseases of the prostate, cystoscopy in men will help determine the degree and nature of the involvement of the bladder and urethra in the pathological process.

Indications:

• Cystitis and urethritis: pain, burning and cutting during urination, pain in the lumbosacral spine, frequent urination with small portions of urine
• Tumors of the bladder: symptoms similar to cystitis, but atypical cells were found on a swab from the urethra or urine
• Prostatitis, prostate adenoma: frequent urge to urinate, sensation of incomplete emptying of the bladder, incontinence/urinary retention, nocturia (frequent nighttime urge to go to the toilet)
• Sexual disorders in men (male infertility): to assess the condition of the seminal tubercle
• Suspicion of urolithiasis with localization of stones in the bladder: pain and cramps in the lower abdomen, difficult painful urination in small portions, a feeling of insufficient emptying of the bladder, turbidity of the urine to a whitish hue, the appearance of salt crystals in the urine (crystalluria)
• Enuresis – bedwetting (urination occurs during sleep) in the absence of mental and neurological pathologies
• Pyuria – excretion of pus with urine (appearance of foreign light clots in the liquid, turbidity)
• Hematuria – blood impurities in the urine (discoloration and transparency of the liquid, the appearance of blood clots) in the absence of injuries
• Anomalies of the genitourinary system or suspicion of them – to assess the volume and shape of the reservoir and urinary tract
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment

Contraindications

Contraindications mean that cystoscopy in these cases is indicated only when other methods are not informative.

• Acute inflammatory processes in the bladder (acute cystitis), urethra (acute urethritis), prostate (acute prostatitis), testicles (acute orchitis) – in men, in the uterus and appendages – in women, during fever
• Bleeding from the urethra of unknown etiology
• Injuries of the urethra and bladder
• Disorders in the hemostasis system (hemophilia)

Medical procedures for cystoscopy

Despite the fact that cystoscopy is a diagnostic procedure, with its help, as with the help of almost all endoscopic examinations, some therapeutic manipulations can be performed:

• Crushing and removal of small stones
• Removal of polyps, small tumors with their further examination with simultaneous coagulation of wound surfaces
• Coagulation of erosions and ulcers of the urethra, bladder
• Removal of clots or foreign bodies and restoration of patency of the urinary tract when obstructed by blood, pus or small stones
• Administration of medicinal solutions, bladder and urethral lavage (lavage water is also collected for examination)

How to prepare?

Cystoscopy under anesthesia requires early (10-12 hours) refusal of food and fluids (3-4 hours), after the procedure it will take time to recover, therefore it is not recommended to use personal transport and engage in potentially dangerous activities that require concentration attention.

Cystoscopy without anesthesia does not require any special preparation: it is enough to arrive on an empty stomach, having made a toilet of the genitals before leaving the house. Before the procedure, you should empty your bladder.

The choice of the type of anesthesia will depend on the indications: cystoscopy under anesthesia or “in a dream” is indicated for excitable or mentally unbalanced patients. Anesthesia can be both general and spinal (only the lower half of the body loses sensitivity, from the lower back, consciousness is preserved).

Since the structure of the male urethra is somewhat more complex (it can be 6 times longer than the female), spinal or general anesthesia is more often recommended for cystoscopy in men to eliminate pain. Also, anesthesia can be recommended if a long examination is expected, removal of multiple neoplasms, if the bladder of the subject has a small (150 ml or less) capacity.

How is the procedure?

• Before the start of the diagnosis, the subject is given a sterile gown, he is asked to undress and lie on the couch on his back, bending his knees, they explain how the examination will be carried out and what sensations will arise during this
• The external genitalia are treated with antiseptic solutions, the endoscope is lubricated with glycerin to improve glide. For men, an anesthetic is injected into the urethra using a syringe with a rubber tube and a clamp, held until the analgesic effect begins (about 10 minutes)

The technique of the procedure will vary depending on the type of instrument. There are rigid and flexible endoscopy.

• Rigid bladder endoscopy is performed using a rigid endoscope on a long (30 cm) metal tube. Such an endoscope spreads tissues well, simplifying examination, however, it is more traumatic and causes more discomfort to the examinee, especially men. A rigid endoscope is not used in the presence of large tumors of the pelvic organs, pregnancy. During hard cystoscopy, an endoscope tube is inserted into the urethra and fluid is supplied to the bladder, which simultaneously flushes it and straightens the mucosal folds, improving visualization. To supply and drain liquid, a two-way valve is connected to the endoscope tube, since if there is pus or blood in the cavity that cloud the environment, the organ must be cleaned before examination. Wash water is collected for analysis
• Flexible endoscopy uses a flexible endoscope, a movable thin tube made of polymer material with an optic and a lamp at the end. The device repeats the curves of the body and therefore can easily penetrate into hard-to-reach places, which makes the examination quite informative. This method allows minimizing injuries and nullifying pain during the procedure. In modern diagnostics, flexible cystoscopy is gradually replacing rigid

Cystoscopy for various patients

Cystoscopy of the bladder in women. As a rule, cystoscopy in women does not cause difficulties and does not require general anesthesia, since the female urethra is straight and short (up to 5 cm). For anesthesia, a local anesthetic is applied to the endoscope tube. Difficulties arise in the presence of large uterine tumors or in late pregnancy, when the uterus compresses the bladder and changes its configuration. In this case, the use of flexible endoscopy is indicated. Examination during pregnancy is performed only for health reasons, since any intervention on the pelvic organs can provoke a spontaneous abortion.

Bladder cystoscopy in men. The male urethra is 17 to 22 cm long, so the examination requires special care and experience from the endoscopist, especially at the stage of inserting the instrument. During the procedure, an anesthesiologist must be constantly in the operating room, who can anesthetize the patient if he experiences severe pain during the study.

For children, bladder cystoscopy is performed only with a flexible pediatric endoscope, which is much thinner than an adult, and only by an experienced pediatric diagnostician.

Consequences of the procedure

After the cessation of the anesthetic, patients, as a rule, experience slight discomfort and burning in the urinary tract, aggravated by urination (especially after cystoscopy in men), frequent urination. After using a rigid endoscope, light pink mucus may be discharged. To reduce pain, it is recommended to increase the amount of fluid consumed (which, in turn, will reduce the concentration of urine), apply an anesthetic once.

If the symptoms do not go away within three days or they are accompanied by fresh blood discharge, chills, fever, you must immediately return to the clinic or call a doctor.

Advantages of the procedure in MEDSI:

• With a high reputation of the doctors of the clinic, the price of cystoscopy is at the level of the average cost of a service in private clinics in Moscow
• Territorial accessibility
• Opportunity to conduct an examination and get expert advice before and after the procedure in the same branch
• Prevention and control of complications, hospitalization in the clinic at will or according to indications
• Experienced diagnosticians with great experience, availability of pediatric specialists
• Discreet staff, technical and courteous service

To make an appointment, call the round-the-clock phone number +7 (495) 7-800-500.