What are the common symptoms of kidney stones. How do kidney stones form in the body. What are the most effective treatment options for kidney stones. Can home remedies effectively dissolve or pass kidney stones. When should you seek medical attention for suspected kidney stones. How can you prevent kidney stones from recurring.

Understanding Kidney Stones: Formation and Symptoms

Kidney stones are solid, crystal-like deposits that form in the kidneys when there’s an imbalance in the levels of certain substances in urine. These stones can vary in size from a tiny grain of sand to as large as a ping pong ball. While small stones may pass unnoticed, larger ones can cause significant discomfort and health issues.

How do kidney stones form?

Kidney stones develop when there’s an excess of stone-forming substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid. These substances can crystallize and bond together, gradually growing into larger stones over time. Factors that contribute to stone formation include dehydration, certain medical conditions, and dietary habits.

Common symptoms of kidney stones

• Severe pain in the side, back, or lower abdomen
• Pain that fluctuates in intensity and location
• Painful or frequent urination
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Fever and chills (if an infection is present)

Is pain always present with kidney stones? Not necessarily. Small stones may pass through the urinary tract without causing noticeable symptoms. However, larger stones often cause intense pain as they move through the ureters, the narrow tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder.

Diagnosis and Medical Interventions for Kidney Stones

When kidney stone symptoms arise, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Urologists employ various diagnostic tools and treatment options to address kidney stones effectively.

Diagnostic methods for kidney stones

• Imaging tests (CT scans, ultrasounds, X-rays)
• Urinalysis
• Blood tests
• 24-hour urine collection

How do doctors determine the best treatment for kidney stones? The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the size and location of the stone, the severity of symptoms, and the patient’s overall health. Small stones may pass naturally with increased fluid intake and pain management, while larger stones often require medical intervention.

Medical treatments for kidney stones

1. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)
2. Ureteroscopy
3. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy
4. Open surgery (rarely used)

Can all kidney stones be treated with the same approach? No, treatment varies based on the stone’s characteristics and the patient’s condition. ESWL uses sound waves to break up stones, while ureteroscopy involves inserting a thin scope into the ureter to remove or break up the stone. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is used for larger stones and involves making a small incision in the back to access the kidney directly.

Debunking Home Remedies: Fact vs. Fiction

While medical interventions are the most reliable methods for treating kidney stones, many people turn to home remedies in search of natural solutions. However, the effectiveness of these remedies is often questionable and lacks scientific support.

The lemon juice and olive oil myth

One popular home remedy involves consuming a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil. Proponents claim this concoction can dissolve kidney stones and facilitate their passage. However, there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim. While lemon juice contains citric acid, which may help prevent stone formation, it’s unlikely to break down existing stones significantly.

Apple cider vinegar: A cure-all?

Apple cider vinegar is touted as a natural remedy for various ailments, including kidney stones. Some believe its acidic nature can help dissolve stones and alkalize the body. However, research doesn’t support these claims. While apple cider vinegar may have some health benefits, it’s not a proven treatment for kidney stones.

The Coke and asparagus method

Another unconventional remedy involves drinking large amounts of Coca-Cola followed by pureed asparagus. This method is based on the idea that the phosphoric acid in Coke can dissolve stones, while asparagus acts as a diuretic. However, medical professionals dismiss this remedy as ineffective and potentially harmful due to the high sugar content and dehydrating effects of Coke.

Do any home remedies actually work for kidney stones? While some natural approaches may help prevent stone formation or provide mild symptom relief, there’s no substantial evidence that home remedies can effectively dissolve or remove existing kidney stones. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping Kidney Stones at Bay

Preventing kidney stones is often easier and less painful than treating them. By adopting certain lifestyle changes and dietary habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing kidney stones.

Hydration: Your first line of defense

Staying well-hydrated is crucial in preventing kidney stone formation. Adequate fluid intake dilutes urine and helps flush out stone-forming substances before they can crystallize. Aim to drink enough water to produce at least 2 liters of urine per day.

Dietary modifications for stone prevention

• Limit sodium intake
• Moderate protein consumption
• Increase calcium-rich foods (contrary to popular belief)
• Reduce oxalate-rich foods if prone to calcium oxalate stones
• Limit purine-rich foods for uric acid stone prevention

Are all kidney stones preventable through diet? While dietary changes can significantly reduce the risk of stone formation, some people may be genetically predisposed to developing kidney stones. In such cases, a combination of dietary modifications and medical management may be necessary.

The Role of Genetics and Medical Conditions in Kidney Stone Formation

While lifestyle factors play a significant role in kidney stone development, genetic predisposition and certain medical conditions can also increase the risk of stone formation. Understanding these factors can help individuals and healthcare providers develop more targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Genetic factors influencing kidney stone risk

Research has identified several genetic mutations that can increase susceptibility to kidney stones. These genetic factors may affect the body’s ability to regulate mineral concentrations in urine or influence the transport of stone-forming substances in the kidneys.

Medical conditions associated with increased stone risk

• Chronic kidney disease
• Inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
• Hyperparathyroidism
• Gout
• Diabetes
• Obesity

How do these conditions contribute to kidney stone formation? Many of these conditions alter the balance of minerals and other substances in the body, leading to changes in urine composition that favor stone formation. For example, chronic kidney disease can impair the kidneys’ ability to regulate calcium levels, while inflammatory bowel diseases can affect the absorption of certain minerals in the intestines.

Advanced Treatment Options for Complex Cases

While most kidney stones can be treated with standard interventions, some cases require more advanced approaches. These situations may include large or complex stones, stones in difficult-to-reach locations, or patients with anatomical abnormalities.

Robotic-assisted stone surgery

Robotic surgery systems allow urologists to perform minimally invasive procedures with enhanced precision and control. This technology can be particularly beneficial for complex cases that might otherwise require open surgery.

Laser lithotripsy

Advanced laser technologies, such as holmium laser lithotripsy, offer improved stone fragmentation with reduced risk of tissue damage. These procedures can be especially effective for larger stones or those resistant to other treatment methods.

Metabolic evaluation and personalized treatment plans

For patients with recurrent kidney stones or complex cases, a comprehensive metabolic evaluation may be necessary. This involves detailed analysis of blood and urine samples to identify underlying metabolic abnormalities that contribute to stone formation.

Can personalized treatment plans reduce the recurrence of kidney stones? Yes, tailored approaches based on metabolic evaluations can significantly reduce stone recurrence rates. These plans may include specific dietary recommendations, medications to correct metabolic imbalances, and targeted preventive strategies.

The Impact of Kidney Stones on Overall Health

While kidney stones are often viewed as an isolated urological issue, their impact can extend to other aspects of health. Understanding these potential consequences underscores the importance of prompt treatment and effective prevention strategies.

Kidney damage and chronic kidney disease

Recurrent or untreated kidney stones can lead to kidney damage over time. The passage of stones may cause scarring in the kidney tissue, and obstruction from larger stones can impair kidney function. In severe cases, this damage can contribute to the development or progression of chronic kidney disease.

Urinary tract infections and sepsis

Kidney stones can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) by creating areas where bacteria can grow and by obstructing normal urine flow. In some cases, these infections can ascend to the kidneys, potentially leading to a serious condition called sepsis if left untreated.

Cardiovascular health implications

Recent research has suggested a potential link between kidney stones and an increased risk of cardiovascular events. While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, it’s thought that shared risk factors and systemic inflammation may play a role.

Does having kidney stones increase the risk of other health problems? While not all kidney stone patients will experience these complications, the presence of stones can be indicative of underlying metabolic issues or increase the risk of certain health problems. Regular medical follow-up and adherence to prevention strategies are crucial for maintaining overall health.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Kidney Stone Management

The field of kidney stone research is continually evolving, with new insights and technologies promising to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options. Staying informed about these developments can help patients and healthcare providers make more informed decisions about kidney stone management.

Advancements in stone analysis techniques

New methods for analyzing kidney stone composition are emerging, including advanced imaging techniques and molecular analysis. These approaches provide more detailed information about stone formation processes, potentially leading to more targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Microbiome research and kidney stones

Growing evidence suggests that the gut microbiome may play a role in kidney stone formation. Ongoing research is exploring how changes in gut bacteria populations might influence stone risk and whether probiotic interventions could help prevent stone formation.

Novel drug therapies for prevention and treatment

Researchers are investigating new medications that could help prevent kidney stone formation or facilitate stone passage. These include drugs that target specific metabolic pathways involved in stone formation and compounds that may help dissolve existing stones.

How might future developments change the landscape of kidney stone management? As our understanding of kidney stone formation and its underlying mechanisms improves, we can expect more personalized and effective approaches to prevention and treatment. This may include targeted dietary interventions based on an individual’s microbiome profile, new medications that address specific types of stones, and improved minimally invasive techniques for stone removal.

In conclusion, kidney stones remain a significant health concern affecting millions of people worldwide. While traditional treatment methods are effective for many cases, ongoing research and technological advancements continue to expand our understanding and improve management strategies. By staying informed about the latest developments and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent kidney stones and minimize their impact on overall health.

Kidney Stones – Lets take a closer look!

What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them?

You may think that the only obvious symptom to determine kidney stones is frequent urination or an

interrupted an uneven stream. (When urinating)

But there are many more symptoms that you need to also look for.

People may experience:

• Pain areas: in the back or side part of the body
• Pain types: can be severe, sharp, or sudden in the abdomen
• Pain circumstances: can occur during urination
• Gastrointestinal: nausea or vomiting
• Urinary: blood in urine or frequent urination
• Also common: sweating

As the kidneys filter waste from the blood, they create urine. Sometimes, salts and other minerals in urine stick together to form small kidney stones. These range from the size of a sugar crystal to a ping pong ball, but they are rarely noticed unless they cause a blockage.

They may cause intense pain if they break loose and push into the ureters, the narrow ducts leading to the bladder.

The internet lists several home remedies – From a medical perspective, the home remedies seem harmless. At Florida Urology Physicians, we recommend that you see a Urologist and take care of  this problem. Click here to schedule an appointment with a Urologist at one of our five offices in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Lehigh Acres or Punta Gorda.

We scoured the internet looking for home remedies. (Our Southwest Florida urologists don’t recommend that you actually try these, it is just fun to see what people will do to try to get rid of the dreaded kidney stones)

1. Lemon Juice and Olive Oil

Sounds awful, doesn’t it? People do claim success in mixing a concoction of lemon juice and olive oil to help dissolve kidney stones as a popular home remedy. Proponents of this method claim that at the first notice of symptoms; mix five ounces of olive oil with five ounces of lemon juice. Drink this combination straight and then drink a glass of water. You should blend this concoction and drink it straight first thing in the morning and again in the late afternoon. Be sure to drink plenty of water as well and extra lemon juice, if possible. Continue this treatment for several days until the stone passes. It is thought that the lemon juice could break down the kidney stones and the olive oil would aid in lubrication to pass the stone more easily. Extra-virgin olive oil is thought to be the best olive oil ingredient to use because it is the thickest and healthiest.

This sounds more like a colon cleaner. If you are brave enough to try this one, chances are, you need to call Florida Urology Physicians right now!

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Makes your mouth pucker just thinking of it. Some home remedy enthusiasts swear by the use of apple cider vinegar to treat kidney stones. The theory behind it is that apple cider vinegar is made of citric acid that which could play a role in dissolving kidney stones, helping the body pass the stones more easily. In addition, it is believed that apple cider vinegar helps in the prevention of kidney stones to begin with by alkalizing the effect on blood and urine and promoting the production of hydrochloric acid in the body to prevent the formation of kidney stones. Proponents of this home remedy recommend mixing two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with six to eight ounces of water and drinking the mixture frequently throughout the day, and especially before meal times to help dissolve kidney stones. Drinking ample amounts of fresh water throughout the day is also suggested to help flush the kidneys. If the stones are passed, you are advised to continue drinking this solution one to two times a week to prevent future kidney stones from forming.

Is it surprising to see vinegar on this list of home remedies. Is there nothing this magical rotten apple juice can’t do? You probably still will have the stone but your pipes will be clean.

3. Coke and Asparagus

Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? A common home remedy for kidney stones involves drinking a large amount of Coke and following it up by consuming a half-pound of steamed asparagus, pureed. Followers of this method suggest that the phosphoric acid found in Coke aids in dissolving the kidney stones. Asparagus is used as a diuretic. Coke alone will dehydrate you, which is not a good thing if you are suffering from kidney stones. It is the interaction with the diuretic asparagus and the phosphoric acid in the Coke that is the key to breaking down the kidney stone and allowing it to pass.

The University of Chicago characterized this home remedy as “useless”

How Successful are These Treatments?

In short . . .not very. There have been many reports of people using these natural methods, but the efficacy is unsubstantiated. Some people report success with these home remedies, but none of these treatments are based in scientific fact. For every anecdotal success story posted online, there are hundreds more stories of failures (and probably upset stomachs). So, what natural remedies DO work?

Read More on Kidney Stones Here.

If you feel you may have kidney stones, we advise you see one of the expert Urologists at Florida Urology Physicians. Don’t delay. If the pain is at a level that concerns you, chances are, you will not be able to pass your stones on your own.

Set up an appointment today. Click here to book an appointment with one of our Urologists today.

Grandma’s Kidney Stone Remedies – Not All They’re Cracked Up to Be

HomeUncategorizedGrandma’s Kidney Stone Remedies – Not All They’re Cracked Up to Be

March 29, 2017

Kidney stones are—in the most literal sense—a pain. They are tiny, hard mineral/acid salt deposits that form in the kidneys. Though they usually have no singular cause, they typically form when the urine becomes concentrated, allowing these elements to crystallize and stick together. Why they form and what they’re made up of depends on the type of kidney stone. Types include:

• Calcium stones. Calcium stones form calcium or calcium oxalate. Oxalate is naturally found in certain foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables, chocolate and nuts) and is also produced by the liver. Situations such as having certain metabolic disorders, intestinal bypass surgery and high doses of vitamin D may increase the chances of calcium oxalate
• Cystine stones. Cystine stones form in individuals with a hereditary disorder—known as cystinuria—in which the kidneys release an excessive amount of certain amino acids
• Struvite stones. Struvite stones form in response to an infection. They can form quickly and can become quite large with little to no warning
• Uric acid stones. These stones are the result of a lack of fluid intake/loss of fluid, a high-protein diet or gout

With so many factors to consider, it’s no wonder kidney stones are so common. In fact, it may be the commonality that has led to so many home remedies. But, how effective are these “tried-and-true” at-home solutions to rid or prevent pesky kidney stones? Let’s take a look at some of the suggestions the internet has to offer:

Remedy #1: Steering clear of soda, coffee and tea will keep kidney stones at bay.

Effectiveness: Though this was once thought to be true by the scientific community, it has since been proven that these beverages do not increase the risk of kidney stones. In actuality, constant fluid intake—regardless of the type of fluid—generally decreases the risk. (Granted, water is always the best option.)

Remedy #2: Consuming Coke^® and steamed asparagus will break down kidney stones.

Effectiveness: Some say that diuretic properties of the popular cola combined with the phosphoric acid of steamed asparagus—half a pound, to be exact—is a surefire way to dissolve kidney stones. While the origins of this are unknown, The University of Chicago officially classified this remedy as “useless.”

Remedy #3: Drinking cranberry juice will help kidney stones pass.

Effectiveness: ENT. Right system, wrong problem.

It has been suggested that cranberry juice may help with urinary tract infections (UTI), but the tart beverage can actually make stones worse. Cranberries are high in oxalate, which may increase the risk of kidney stone development.

Remedy #4: Avoid alcoholic beverages to decrease the risk of forming kidney stones.

Effectiveness: Diuretics have struck again, this time in the form of alcohol.

There was a concern that the diuretic properties of alcohol would be a risk factor for developing kidney stones. In reality, beer and wine consumption may actually decrease the risk (in moderation).

Remedy #5: Drinking lemon juice and olive oil can help kidney stones pass with ease.

Effectiveness: Besides being a gross combination, there is no confirmed evidence that the acids in lemons and the lubrication properties of olive oil will help kidney stones pass easily (or at all, for that matter).

What’s the bottom line?

Whether found on the web or passed down by generations, home remedies have no place in the proper prevention or treatment of kidney stones. In fact, treatment should be discussed with a specialist to determine the best course of action for dealing with kidney stones.

Meet the Kidney Stone Specialists

At Partners In Urology, we treat kidney stones and other urologic conditions. With over 25 years of experience, we put our patients first, treating them with care and dignity.

 For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

Which asparagus is the most correct – AgroXXI

Anna Medvedeva

June 12, 2018 at 09:00

Asparagus – a low-calorie vegetable – features of declaration, storage and consumption asparagus. This culture is very popular in Europe, and in Russia it is eaten mainly by healthy lifestyle supporters and connoisseurs of natural aphrodisiacs.

Asparagus is a vegetable plant that has been known for over 2000 years. Of the 200 varieties of asparagus, only a few are eaten; it is a perennial herb or shrub plant, on a long branched stem there are many small leaves, soft needles, so asparagus resembles a Christmas tree. Young shoots 15-22 cm long and not thicker than 2 cm are used for food. Asparagus has a neutral taste.

Calorie content of asparagus is 20 kcal per 100 grams. Contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, B6, C, E H and PP, aspargin, and minerals: potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, phosphorus and sodium, folic acid. Asparagine is rich in fiber, asparagine has a vasodilating effect, thereby lowering blood pressure and protecting the heart muscle. Asparagus is a natural diuretic, gently cleansing the kidneys, and is also credited with removing kidney stones. Asparagus has antiviral and antifungal properties, acts as an antioxidant, and has a choleretic effect.

Only three types of asparagus are used: white, green and purple. White is considered the most tender and noble. Green is the most popular. The purple variety of asparagus is quite rare, it has a taste with a slight bitterness. Asparagus is a seasonal plant, and although the vegetable can be found on supermarket shelves all year round, summer asparagus is still the most juicy and “correct”.

Store asparagus in the refrigerator for no longer than two to three days, covered with cling film. Often, asparagus is frozen, but already cooked, most often boiled. Asparagus can be boiled, fried, baked, marinated or steamed. Asparagus is often added to salads and soups, used as a side dish or addition to complex dishes.

Asparagine lowers blood pressure and strengthens the heart. Coumarins improve the condition of blood vessels and blood clotting. Saponins improve the secretion of the glands, remove mucus from the bronchi and thin the sputum. Carotenes provide cancer prevention. Folic acid makes the skin beautiful, prevents hair loss and the appearance of gray hair. Asparagus juice helps to get rid of swelling and warts, prevents the formation of cellulite.

Asparagus is considered to be a good aphrodisiac. Regulatory documents for this product is GOST R Fresh asparagus. Laboratory tests were carried out for compliance with TR TS 021/2011 “On food safety”, section Fruit and vegetable products. Declaration of conformity TR TS 021/2011 was registered and posted on the website of the Customs Union

(Source: Specialists of the Certification Body of the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Rostov Reference Center of Rosselkhoznadzor”).

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What can not be eaten with kidney stones?

Kidney stones or in other words ICD (urolithiasis) is an unpleasant disease, in many cases caused by malnutrition. Let’s figure out which foods should not be consumed by people who are prone to the formation of kidney stones or already have them.

It should be noted right away that the therapeutic diets for each type of stones are different – this must be taken into account. But, nevertheless, the general list of products not recommended for use in case of urolithiasis is approximately similar – it is undesirable to use a lot of products that contribute to the formation of concentrated uric acid in the body:

g per day)

Excess salt in the body can provoke the formation of stones (calculi) in the kidneys.

2. Alcohol

Strongly contraindicated in people with kidney stones. Alcohol adversely affects the condition of the entire genitourinary system, causing spasm of the ureters and even stagnation of urine. In addition, alcohol increases the concentration of urine, and, as a result, the precipitation of salts from which later kidney stones will form.

3. Purine-Rich Foods

Purines are substances found in many foods, but most of them are found in foods of animal origin. Purines are dangerous because they are converted to uric acid during their breakdown, contributing to the formation of kidney stones and the development of gout.

These include: barbecue, sausage, sausages, fried meat and fatty fish, bacon, margarine, kidneys, brains, tongue, strong meat and fish broths, as well as cooking, beef and mutton fat. This restriction is especially important for those who have urate kidney stones.

4. Canned food

They contain a lot of salt and purines (it is better to forget about sprats and other similar salty smoked canned food).

5. Easily digestible carbohydrates (confectionery and flour products)

The most harmful yeast bread, which contains a large amount of purines.

6. Highly carbonated sweet drinks

They also contain an increased amount of purines.

7. Some vegetables rich in oxalic acid

These foods are sorrel, spinach, carambola, rhubarb, celery, asparagus, onions, carrots, beets, citrus peels. Oxalic acid is also found in ginger, white pepper, strong black and green tea.