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and each was a different experience.
The first was in 1992. I was sedated, but not unconscious. I have a very high tolerance for pain, but that one was a bit too much. I spent the next week flat on my back, floating happily with Percoset. I found that the drugs didn't really help the pain, but I was so relaxed that the pain wasn't uncomfortable, merely annoying. Although I did throw up a few times the first day. The Percoset is very upsetting to the tummy - I've found that a "traditional herbal remedy" helps to settle the stomach before you take the prescribed pills.
The second time was a breeze. The procedure was done in the early evening. My roommate picked me up at the hospital, and I went right home to bed. The next day we went Christmas shopping, and I had absolutely no symptoms.
The third time was not so pleasant. The used some sort of roto-rooter and went up through my urethra. If you're male, like me, that's not so good. I was completely out for the procedure, but the last thing you want to do is pee afterwards.
The fourth one was the worst. Not only did they use Mr. Roto-Rooter (I was completely out for the procedure), but they also installed a stent, which is a rubber tube that is anchored between the kidney and the bladder. Its purpose is to hold the ureter open so that stones may pass. The end which is anchored in your bladder is attached to a string which extends to the outside, get it?
Here's what to prepare for: they may or may not completely knock you out. You will probably lie on a table with a removable section under your back. They will put jelly on your back, and a dome will come up from under the table. You will feel some "pinging" as they send the sound waves through your body. It feels like someone is snapping a rubber band against your back, not much to worry about. As they increase the pressure, you may actually feel it against your kidney. If it gets to be too much, they will increase the sedative.
If they need to use the roto-rooter thingy, they will put you completely under - you won't feel a thing.
In the recovery room, they will give you some orange juice and saltines. You will be woozy. Once you are somewhat steady, someone will escort you to the bathroom. This is the hard part; all I can say is close your eyes and push hard, it will soon be over. Do not be alarmed - the toilet will be full of blood - this is completely normal.
When you get home, grab a blanket and get comfortable on the couch - you will be there a while. Drink lots and lots of water. I usually drank 1/2 cranberry juice and 1/2 water. You should plan on drinking about a gallon a day - no kidding - the more you drink - the sooner it will be over. Take the drugs they give you. If you get an upset stomach, remember the herbal remedy - it does wonders. I hate to tell you this, but the first day home is the worst, but don't worry, if you make it through that first day, it's all downhill after that.
Best of luck to you - I'll be thinking of you tomorrow. Sorry to be so graphic, but forwarned is forarmed. You'll feel better in a day or two, if not back in tip-top shape. Besides, the lithotripsy is nothing compared to actually suffering a kidney stone. I've passed about 20 including 5 that were bigger than a pencil erasure. Changes in my diet and drinking lots of water have kept me clean for the last four years.
If you have any other questions, feel free to PM me. I have a soft spot for anyone who is going through this.
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