How can one deal with kidney stones and stage 4 breast cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

My wife, 59, has stage 4 breast cancer and is suffering from severe pain due to kidney stones. The urologist recommends surgery to remove the stones. Still, her oncologist is concerned that she is too weak for surgery due to her low hemoglobin (7.5) and the fact that she is receiving weekly blood transfusions. The pain from the kidney stones is so intense that she cannot sleep, but pain medications cause vomiting. Additionally, her feet are very swollen.

What should we focus on first, pain relief or managing the kidney stones?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Metabolic changes during chemotherapy can increase the risk of kidney stones.

Lithotripsy: A non-invasive treatment using shock waves to break up kidney stones.
Medications: Bicarbonate and Potassium citrate can help dissolve stones.
Home remedies: Drinking plenty of water, diluted apple cider vinegar, lemon, oranges, and herbal supplements such as nettle leaf. All help to dissolve the kidney stones.

Both conditions must be managed together. You cannot delay breast cancer treatment or postpone addressing the kidney stones due to the severe pain.

I hope this helps answer your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.