Lithotripsy, a medical procedure used to pulverize painful kidney stones, is now believed to increased the risk of diabetes as well as raise blood pressure at some later stage in life. Interestingly, the study published by the Mayo Clinic, found that the diabetes risk was related in part to the number of shocks given during lithotripsy while the rise in high blood pressure was related to treatment of stones in both kidneys, not to the number of shocks.
What does this tell us? Those seeking medical treatment need to be aware of the benefits and risks in any medical procedure. We all should become better and smarter consumers when it comes to our own health.
