How do kidney stones form. What are the symptoms of kidney stones. Which natural remedies can help pass kidney stones at home. Why is hydration crucial for preventing and passing kidney stones. How can dietary changes reduce the risk of kidney stone formation.

Understanding Kidney Stones: Formation and Risk Factors

Kidney stones are hard, mineral-based masses that develop within the kidneys and urinary tract. These painful formations affect approximately one in ten adults at some point in their lives. To effectively manage and prevent kidney stones, it’s crucial to understand how they form and what factors contribute to their development.

What causes kidney stones to form? The primary culprits include:

• Dehydration or lack of adequate fluid intake
• Excessive consumption of certain minerals
• Genetic predisposition
• Poor dietary habits

Interestingly, diet plays a significant role in kidney stone formation. Sodas and sugary drinks are major contributors due to their high levels of processed sugar, phosphoric acid, caffeine, and high fructose corn syrup. These ingredients can increase the risk of kidney stones by altering the body’s mineral balance and creating an acidic environment in the urinary tract.

Recognizing Kidney Stone Symptoms: When to Seek Help

Identifying kidney stone symptoms early can help you take prompt action and potentially avoid complications. Common signs of kidney stones include:

• Severe pain in the back and side
• Pain radiating from the lower abdomen to the groin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Blood in the urine

Is immediate medical attention necessary for all kidney stone symptoms? While most cases can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant urgent care. If you experience fever, chills, or notice blood in your urine, it’s crucial to seek medical help promptly, as these could indicate a kidney infection.

Natural Remedies for Passing Kidney Stones

For those looking to pass kidney stones naturally, several home remedies can be effective. These methods can help ease discomfort and promote the passage of smaller stones:

1. Increase fluid intake, especially water
2. Use heat therapy on the lower back
3. Engage in gentle movement or light exercise
4. Try raw apple cider vinegar mixed with water

How does increased water intake help with kidney stones? Drinking plenty of water is crucial for flushing out kidney stones and preventing new ones from forming. It helps dilute urine and prevents mineral buildup that can lead to stone formation.

The Power of Hydration in Kidney Stone Management

Proper hydration is paramount in both passing and preventing kidney stones. Why is water so effective against kidney stones? Water helps to:

• Dilute urine, making it less likely for minerals to crystallize
• Flush out toxins and excess minerals from the body
• Promote regular urination, which helps move small stones through the urinary tract

While increasing water intake, it’s advisable to minimize consumption of coffee, alcohol, tea, and soda, as these can contribute to dehydration and potentially exacerbate kidney stone symptoms.

Dietary Modifications to Prevent Kidney Stones

Adopting a diet that promotes optimal urological health can significantly reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. What dietary changes can help prevent kidney stones?

• Increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables
• Reduce intake of processed foods and added sugars
• Limit sodium consumption
• Moderate calcium intake (consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice)

Why are fresh fruits and vegetables beneficial for kidney health? These foods are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall urinary system function. They also help maintain a healthy pH balance in the body, reducing the risk of stone formation.

The Role of Exercise in Kidney Stone Prevention and Management

Physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining urological health and can aid in both preventing and passing kidney stones. How does exercise contribute to kidney stone management?

• Promotes overall fluid circulation in the body
• Helps maintain a healthy body weight, reducing the risk of stone formation
• Gentle movement can assist in passing small kidney stones

What types of exercises are beneficial for those with kidney stones? Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and yoga can be particularly helpful. These exercises promote gentle movement without putting excessive strain on the body.

Incorporating Movement into Your Kidney Stone Management Plan

For those currently dealing with kidney stones, incorporating gentle movement into your daily routine can aid in stone passage. How can you safely include exercise when you have kidney stones?

• Start with short walks around your home or neighborhood
• Practice gentle stretching exercises
• Consider low-impact activities like stationary cycling or swimming if comfortable

Remember to listen to your body and avoid any movements that cause pain or discomfort. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise regimen, especially if you’re currently experiencing kidney stone symptoms.

Alternative Therapies for Kidney Stone Relief

In addition to conventional treatments and lifestyle modifications, some alternative therapies may offer relief from kidney stone symptoms. What are some alternative approaches to managing kidney stones?

• Herbal remedies (e.g., dandelion root, nettle leaf)
• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Stress reduction techniques (e.g., meditation, deep breathing exercises)

How might these alternative therapies help with kidney stones? While scientific evidence is limited, some people report reduced pain and improved overall well-being when incorporating these methods into their kidney stone management plan. It’s important to note that alternative therapies should not replace conventional medical treatment but can be used as complementary approaches.

The Potential of Herbal Remedies

Certain herbs have been traditionally used to support kidney health and potentially aid in stone passage. What herbal remedies are commonly associated with kidney stone management?

• Chanca Piedra (also known as “stone breaker”)
• Horsetail
• Celery seed
• Uva Ursi

While these herbs may offer potential benefits, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, as they can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone.

When to Seek Medical Intervention for Kidney Stones

While many kidney stones can be passed naturally at home, some situations require medical attention. When should you consult a doctor about kidney stones?

• Severe, persistent pain that doesn’t respond to home remedies
• Signs of infection (fever, chills)
• Inability to pass urine
• Visible blood in the urine
• Stones larger than 5mm in diameter

What medical interventions are available for kidney stones? Depending on the size and location of the stone, treatment options may include:

1. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)
2. Ureteroscopy
3. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy
4. Medication to help pass the stone or prevent future stones

Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate treatment based on your individual case and medical history.

Long-Term Strategies for Kidney Stone Prevention

Preventing future kidney stones is just as important as treating existing ones. What long-term strategies can help reduce the risk of recurrent kidney stones?

• Maintain consistent hydration
• Adopt a balanced, kidney-friendly diet
• Regular exercise and weight management
• Limit sodium and animal protein intake
• Consider dietary supplements (under medical supervision)

How can dietary supplements help prevent kidney stones? Certain supplements, such as magnesium and vitamin B6, may help reduce the risk of stone formation in some individuals. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, as needs vary based on individual health factors and existing stone composition.

The Importance of Regular Check-ups

For those with a history of kidney stones, regular medical check-ups are essential. Why are follow-up appointments crucial for kidney stone prevention?

• Monitor for new stone formation
• Assess the effectiveness of current prevention strategies
• Adjust treatment plans as needed
• Identify and address any underlying health conditions that may contribute to stone formation

Your healthcare provider can help develop a personalized prevention plan based on your medical history, lifestyle, and specific risk factors.

Understanding the Impact of Kidney Stones on Overall Health

While kidney stones primarily affect the urinary system, their impact can extend to other aspects of health and well-being. How do kidney stones affect overall health?

• Increased risk of urinary tract infections
• Potential for chronic kidney disease if left untreated
• Impact on mental health due to pain and discomfort
• Disruption of daily activities and quality of life

Addressing kidney stones promptly and implementing preventive measures not only alleviates immediate discomfort but also contributes to long-term health and well-being.

The Psychological Impact of Kidney Stones

The pain and uncertainty associated with kidney stones can take a toll on mental health. How can individuals cope with the psychological aspects of kidney stones?

• Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
• Practice stress-reduction techniques
• Maintain open communication with healthcare providers
• Consider counseling or therapy if needed

Addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of kidney stones can lead to better overall outcomes and improved quality of life.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Kidney Stone Management

The field of kidney stone prevention and treatment continues to evolve. What are some promising areas of research in kidney stone management?

• Development of new medications to prevent stone formation
• Advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Exploration of the gut microbiome’s role in kidney stone formation
• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic factors

How might future advancements change kidney stone treatment? As research progresses, we may see more targeted, personalized approaches to preventing and treating kidney stones, potentially reducing the incidence and recurrence of this painful condition.

The Role of Technology in Kidney Stone Management

Technological advancements are playing an increasingly important role in kidney stone detection and treatment. How is technology improving kidney stone management?

• Enhanced imaging techniques for earlier and more accurate detection
• Development of AI-assisted diagnostic tools
• Telemedicine options for remote consultations and follow-ups
• Wearable devices to monitor hydration and other relevant health metrics

These technological innovations have the potential to revolutionize how we approach kidney stone prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, making care more accessible and personalized.

Natural Remedies to Pass Kidney Stones

Passing kidney stones can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. Unfortunately, kidney stones are extremely common, as one in 10 adults will experience them at least once in their lifetime. Although this condition seems serious and painful, kidney stones can usually be safely passed at home.

In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for passing kidney stones. From medical treatment to natural remedies, we will provide you with the information you need to understand this condition and help you manage the pain and discomfort associated with it.

Symptoms

The causes of kidney stones can vary, but they often form due to a lack of fluid in the body, an excess of certain minerals, or a genetic predisposition. Symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, fever, and blood in your urine are the tell-tale signs of kidney stones. Other symptoms include severe pain in your back and side, along with radiating pain from your lower abdomen to the groin. It is important to note that if you have a fever, chills, or blood in the urine, you should seek immediate medical attention as it could be an indication of a kidney infection.

The Causes of Kidney Stones 

Kidney stones are hard, mineral-based masses that form into stones within the kidneys and urinary tract. Like many other ailments, a poor diet is the leading cause of kidney stone formation. While genetics and environmental factors can play a role, your diet is the easiest thing you can change. 

Specifically, sodas and sugary drinks are major culprits behind the causes of kidney stones. This reason being sodas are filled with unhealthy chemicals, including high levels of processed bleached sugar, phosphoric acid, caffeine, and high fructose corn syrup. The ingredients in these products can pose a health risk to your body, and especially for your urinary system.

These drinks cause kidney stones thanks to the high levels of fructose corn syrup which metabolizes into oxalate and increases the excretion of uric acid and calcium. This combination encourages kidney stone formation at a higher rate than normal. Plus, the phosphoric acid in soda can create an acidic environment in your kidney tract, leading to more kidney stones. Diets high in sodium are also associated with this condition. The amount of calcium in your urine can also contribute to kidney stones. Therefore is you are at risk for developing kidney stones, you may want to reduce calcium intake in your diet.

Instead, eat a diet for optimal urological health that is full of fresh vegetables and fruits. Avoid processed foods and sugar to avoid kidney stones and maintain a healthy urinary system. Don’t forget to keep hydrated!

Related: Can Wine Prevent Kidney Stones?

How to Prevent Kidney Stones

Living a healthy lifestyle and taking care of your urinary health can help prevent kidney stones. Simple tips can be implemented to ensure your urinary health is in tip-top shape. To learn more about how you can change your lifestyle to prevent kidney stones, download our Nutrition and Lifestyle Guide for expert guidance from our very own Urology Specialists.  

It’s important to note that these prevention methods may not work for everyone, and if you have a history of kidney stones, it’s best to consult with your doctor to determine the best course of action for you.

How to Pass Kidney Stones at Home

Kidney stones can only exit the body via urine. Stones that are smaller than 5mm can usually pass easily. Larger stones will generally require medical intervention. Depending on the kidney stone’s size and location, the length of time it will take to pass varies.  

Natural Remedies to Pass Kidney Stones

Passing kidney stones can be a painful process, but there are several things you can do to help ease the pain and discomfort, and pass the stones more quickly. Thankfully, there are many natural home remedies for passing kidney stones at home effectively. So, if you are dealing with kidney stones, here is how you can pass them safely:

• Gently moving around: Such as taking a walk or doing some light exercise, which can help to move the stone along and make it easier to pass.
• Use heat: Applying heat to your lower back can help to relax the muscles in that area, which can make it easier to pass a stone. A heating pad, hot water bottle, or warm bath can be effective.
• Drink plenty of water: Kidney stones need to be flushed out of the body so be sure to drink lots of water to keep them moving along. Minimize coffee, alcohol, tea, and soda. while passing a kidney stone as these can cause dehydration and make the pain worse. Remember: hydration is key for both passing and preventing!
• Try raw apple cider vinegar: You can mix this with a few ounces of water to make it more palatable. This will also help break up the stones and can help prevent future kidney stone formation.
• Follow a specific diet: Certain foods can help to reduce the risk of developing kidney stones, such as eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and limiting foods that are high in oxalates and salt. Celery, brussel sprouts, cucumber, watermelon, and asparagus are great foods to help with passing kidney stones.

Keep in mind, these natural remedies to pass kidney stones can only help with smaller stones, and not all kidney stones will be passed without medical treatment. If the stone is too large, causing too much pain, or blocking the flow of urine, your doctor might recommend other treatments.

Treatment Options for Passing Kidney Stones

For larger kidney stones, these are some of the treatments your doctor may use:

Shock Wave Therapy

This form of therapy consists of shock waves to help break up the kidney stone into smaller pieces, which will then allow them to pass more easily out of the body. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is used with stones larger than 5mm but no larger than 2cm, and with stones that are inside of the kidney, meaning they have not traveled down the ureter to exit the body. This treatment is also used when the stone is blocking urine flow and causing extreme pain. The procedure lasts about an hour and may require general anesthesia. This outpatient procedure cannot be used for obese or pregnant patients as there are risks of kidney injury with this treatment.

Related: Questions to Ask Your Urologist About Kidney Stones

Medication or Surgery

Medication may help you if you have a small kidney stone that you are trying to pass naturally. Alpha-blockers are a common medication for kidney stones. These work by relaxing the muscles in your urinary tract, therefore helping the stone to pass less painfully.

Surgery will be required if you have a large kidney stone that cannot be passed out of the body. To avoid the need for surgery, use our tips to minimize your risk for kidney stones and help break up any mineral deposits that may form in your kidneys over time.

We are Here to Help

At Urology Specialists of the Carolinas, our goal is to help you prevent common urological concerns such as painful kidney stones. Consulting with one of our specialized urologists can help you identify the treatment options that are available to you. We work closely with you to understand your individual needs and tailor treatment plans accordingly. And, if you are looking for more information to learn more ways you can take care of your urinary system, download our free guide. Click the button below and get your free copy today!

Access The Guide

This post was originally published in 2015  and refreshed in 2023.

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.