Introduction:
Urinary symptoms like side or back pain, bloody urine, or difficulty passing urine may have various causes and must be evaluated by a medical professional. Identifying the cause of the symptoms is important for choosing the right treatment and for the patient’s peace of mind and long-term kidney health.
If you’re searching for CT Urography in Bangalore, diagnostic imaging can help medical professionals take detailed images of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Depending on your medical history and symptoms, a urologist may order an ultrasound, a CT scan, or a specialized CT Urography.
Located in Tirumanahalli, near Thanisandra in North Bangalore, Regal Hospital has urology and radiology departments and offers several imaging tests, including ultrasounds and CT scans. These tests can help diagnose conditions like kidney stones.
Better understanding the tests you are scheduled for, the expected findings, and how they may help address your symptoms can put your mind at ease before your medical appointment.
What Is a CT Urogram?
A CT urogram is a special kind of imaging test that combines computed tomography (CT) with the use of a contrast agent to create images of the urinary tract.
Because blood in the urine may be caused by problems of the kidneys or urinary tract, or by a tumor, a CT urogram may be ordered to evaluate the urinary tract.
What Is Different about a CT Urogram and a Routine CT Scan?
A routine CT scan focuses on a particular body part or region based on the clinical question. A CT urogram tailors a specific imaging protocol to evaluate the urinary tract and may include images of the contrast as it runs into the urine.
A CT scan may be performed when kidney stones are suspected. A non-contrast CT scan may be adequate to image the kidney stones and show their size and location. A CT urogram may be performed to evaluate blood in the urine or to evaluate the lining of the urinary tract.
Both exams serve different purposes. Your doctor will determine which is more appropriate based on your condition.
What Is Ultrasound and What Is Its Importance to A Urologist?
Images of the body are made by the reflection of sound waves of very high frequency. It does not utilize ionizing radiation and is very useful to evaluate the urinary tract, kidneys and other pelvic organs.
A KUB ultrasound may assist in the diagnosis of urinary tract swelling and abnormalities of the bladder and help identify some kidney stones.
Why Is Ultrasound Beneficial for Evaluating Kidney Stones?
Ultrasound may be the first line of evaluation in a patient with suspected kidney stones to evaluate swelling and obstruction of the kidney and bladder.
It is useful in many situations where it is important to avoid the use of ionizing radiation, for example in pregnant patients.
Alternatively, ultrasound may miss small stones or stones in parts of the ureter that are difficult to visualize. If the symptoms persist or the findings are inconclusive, the doctor may recommend other imaging studies.
Patients looking for kidney stone treatment in Bangalore should be aware that an ultrasound is only one part of the evaluation. Other factors such as symptoms, physical examination, urine tests and other tests may affect the management.
Common Kidney Stone Symptoms
Kidney stones are hard deposits of urinary salts and minerals. Some stones remain in the kidneys and are asymptomatic. Others obstruct the flow of urine and cause pain.
Symptoms of obstructing kidney stones may include:
- Severe Side or Back Pain: The pain may occur in the lower abdomen and groin region.
- Blood in the Urine: The color of urine may be red, brown or pink.
- Painful Urination: Burning sensation while urinating is common.
- Frequent Urination: You may feel the urge to urinate frequently.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Intense pain may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
- Cloudy or Foul Smelling Urine: It may indicate infection.
Other Causes of Symptoms
These symptoms may be caused by other conditions and shouldn’t be self-diagnosed. A qualified urologist should evaluate the symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors for Kidney Stones
Prolonged presence of minerals in concentrated urine may cause formation of kidney stones. Other factors that increase the risk of stones are:
Low fluid intake
- High sodium intake
- Certain metabolic conditions
- Family history of kidney stones
- Obesity
Certain urinary tract conditions or medications.
The recommendation for prevention is dependent on the type of stone and the individual’s medical history. Patients interested in kidney stone treatment in Bangalore might want to inquire of their urologist regarding the need for additional testing (i.e. stone analysis or further urine testing) in order to determine the cause.
When is Kidney Stone Pain Considered to Be a Medical Emergency?
- You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Pain in the side or back that is severe or does not go away.
- Fever or chills.
- Continuous vomiting or inability to keep fluid down.
- Inability to urinate.
- Bleeding with your urine and severe pain.
- Signs of a urinary tract infection and blockage.
A blocked urinary tract with an infection can be a medical emergency. It is not recommended to delay medical attention and use home remedies or other measures in the meantime, especially if you do not have an appointment for an imaging test.
How are Kidney Stones and Urinary Problems Investigated?
A urologist will select the proper tests based on the condition that is suspected.
- Blood and Urine Tests
Blood tests may be ordered to assess kidney function and detect the presence of stones. A urine test may reveal blood or infection in the urinary tract.
- Ultrasound
A blocked ureter or kidney may be enlarged. Swelling of the kidney may also be caused by urinary tract obstruction.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
A Non-contrast CT scan may be done to assess urinary stones and complications.
- CT Urogram
A CT urogram may be ordered for the evaluation of certain cases of blood in the urine, suspected abnormalities of the urinary tract or in other specific clinical scenarios. This is typically performed with intravenous contrast and is therefore not recommended for patients with compromised kidney function or with known allergies to intravenous contrast.
Patients interested in kidney stone treatments in Bangalore should note that imaging is done to evaluate the cause of blood in the urine and help urologists in taking the next decision.
Kidney Stone Treatments in Bangalore
The type of treatment of a kidney stone depends on factors like the size of the stone, where it is located, how it is affecting the urinary system, and what the symptoms are.
Medicines and Observation
If stones are small, they may pass on their own and no treatment is required. Sometimes, the doctor will prescribe medicines that help the stone pass. If you have kidney problems, self-medication is strictly not advised.
Lifestyle Changes and Diet
Through lifestyle changes and a controlled diet, you can prevent stones from forming again. Your fluid intake is generally prescribed according to your medical condition and may need to be adjusted.
Patients seeking kidney stone treatment in Bangalore must discuss the benefits, risks, alternatives and expected recovery with a qualified urologist.
Preparing for Your Scan and Understanding the Results
Before an ultrasound or CT urogram, follow the preparation instructions given to you by the imaging team. Preparation varies with the type of study ordered and may require you to fast or follow specific fluid restrictions.
- Before having a CT urogram tell your doctor if you:
- Have a history of kidney disease or reduced kidney function.
- Have previously had an allergic reaction to iodinated contrast materials.
- Have any other significant medical conditions.
- Take any regular medicines.
- Pregnant women should also tell their doctor.
During a contrast study, some people may experience a transient sense of warmth and a metallic taste in the mouth. Tell the person performing the study if you experience any nausea.
After the exam, a radiologist will analyze the images, and a report will be prepared for the doctor that ordered the study. Your urologist will review the results and determine if additional testing or treatment is needed.
What makes Regal Hospital unique for Urological Assessment?
Regal Hospital is a multispecialty and advanced kidney care hospital, located in North Bangalore. Published services include urology, nephrology, ultrasound, CT scans and other diagnostic tests.
The Hospital is in Tirumanahalli near Thanisandra, and is within easy reach of Hennur, Yelahanka, Hebbal and surrounding areas.
Patients who want to explore treatments for kidney stones in Bangalore can contact a urologist to discuss their symptoms and possible imaging and treatments. The hospital offers radiology services to assist in diagnostic imaging. The hospital’s radiology services help the treating physicians take clinical decisions based on the imaging and the patient’s overall condition.
If you want to know more about CT urogram services in Bangalore, contact the hospital to confirm CT urography, the need for a referral, and any preparation required. The hospital has CT and ultrasound services, and the CT urogram service should be confirmed with the hospital directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a CT urogram better than an ultrasound for kidney stones?
Not in every situation. Ultrasound avoids ionising radiation and can identify many stones. A non-contrast CT scan is often more sensitive for detecting and locating stones. A CT urogram is generally used for specific urinary tract investigations, such as evaluating blood in the urine.
- Is a CT urogram painful?
The scan itself is generally painless. An intravenous line may cause brief discomfort, and contrast injection can cause a temporary warm sensation or metallic taste. Tell the imaging team about previous contrast reactions or other medical concerns.
- Can ultrasound detect all kidney stones?
No. Ultrasound can identify many stones but may miss small stones or those in parts of the ureter that are difficult to visualise. Additional imaging may be recommended when necessary.
- When should I consult a urologist for kidney stone symptoms?
Consult a urologist for persistent side pain, blood in the urine, painful urination, or recurring urinary symptoms. Severe pain, fever, vomiting, inability to pass urine, or suspected infection requires urgent medical evaluation.
- Can I enquire about CT urogram services at Regal Hospital near Thanisandra?
Yes. Contact Regal Hospital to confirm the availability of CT urography, referral requirements, preparation instructions, and appointment timings. Its website lists radiology, CT scanning, and ultrasound services.
Book Your Free Consultation Today
Call us today: +91 888 405 8888.
Visit us: Near Thanisandra-Yelahanka Road, Bengaluru
Learn more: www.regalhospital.com
This blog is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from a qualified doctor. Please consult a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.
