How can you pass kidney stones naturally at home. What are the most effective remedies for kidney stone pain. Which lifestyle changes help prevent kidney stones. How long does it take to pass a kidney stone naturally. What foods should you avoid with kidney stones.

Understanding Kidney Stones: Causes and Symptoms

Kidney stones are a common urological issue affecting millions of people worldwide. These hard, mineral-based masses form within the kidneys and urinary tract, causing discomfort and pain. To effectively manage and prevent kidney stones, it’s crucial to understand their underlying causes and recognize the symptoms.

What Causes Kidney Stones?

Several factors contribute to the formation of kidney stones:

• Dehydration
• Excessive mineral consumption
• Genetic predisposition
• Poor diet high in sodium and processed foods
• High intake of sugary drinks and sodas

One of the primary culprits behind kidney stone formation is a diet high in sodas and sugary beverages. These drinks contain harmful ingredients such as processed sugar, phosphoric acid, caffeine, and high fructose corn syrup. The fructose corn syrup metabolizes into oxalate and increases the excretion of uric acid and calcium, promoting kidney stone formation.

Recognizing Kidney Stone Symptoms

Identifying kidney stone symptoms early can help you seek appropriate treatment. Common signs 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 urine

Do kidney stones always cause noticeable symptoms? Not always. Some small stones may pass without causing significant discomfort. However, larger stones typically lead to more pronounced symptoms. If you experience fever, chills, or blood in your urine, seek immediate medical attention as these could indicate a kidney infection.

Natural Remedies for Passing Kidney Stones

While kidney stones can be painful, many cases can be managed at home using natural remedies. These methods can help ease discomfort and promote stone passage.

Hydration: The Key to Stone Passage

Increasing fluid intake is crucial for passing kidney stones. How much water should you drink? Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. This helps flush out the urinary system and may help smaller stones pass more easily. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sodas, as these can lead to dehydration and exacerbate symptoms.

Apple Cider Vinegar: A Natural Stone Dissolver

Raw apple cider vinegar has gained popularity as a natural remedy for kidney stones. How does it work? The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar is thought to help dissolve kidney stones. Mix two tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar with 8 ounces of water and drink this solution throughout the day. Not only may this help break down existing stones, but it could also prevent future stone formation.

Heat Therapy for Pain Relief

Applying heat to the affected area can provide significant pain relief. How can you use heat effectively? Use a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower back for 20-30 minutes at a time. This helps relax muscles and may ease the passage of stones. Alternatively, taking a warm bath can provide full-body relief and promote relaxation.

Dietary Changes to Prevent Kidney Stones

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to kidney stones. Making informed dietary choices can significantly reduce your risk of developing these painful deposits.

Foods to Avoid

Which foods should you limit to prevent kidney stones? Consider reducing intake of:

• High-sodium processed foods
• Sugary drinks and sodas
• Excessive animal protein
• Foods high in oxalates (for those prone to calcium oxalate stones)

Kidney-Friendly Diet Choices

What should you eat to promote urological health? Focus on:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins
• Low-fat dairy products (in moderation)
• Foods rich in citric acid, like lemons and limes

Is there a specific diet plan for kidney stone prevention? While individual needs may vary, the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet has shown promise in reducing kidney stone risk. This diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products while limiting sodium, added sugars, and red meat.

Lifestyle Modifications for Kidney Stone Prevention

Beyond dietary changes, certain lifestyle modifications can play a crucial role in preventing kidney stones. Implementing these changes can contribute to overall urological health and reduce the likelihood of stone formation.

Stay Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight

Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy body weight are essential for kidney stone prevention. How does exercise help? Physical activity can help regulate calcium metabolism and reduce the risk of stone formation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Manage Stress Levels

Chronic stress can impact overall health, including kidney function. How can stress contribute to kidney stones? High stress levels may lead to dehydration and poor dietary choices, both risk factors for kidney stones. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine.

Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking

Both excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can negatively impact kidney function and increase the risk of stone formation. How do these habits affect kidney health? Alcohol can lead to dehydration and imbalances in mineral metabolism, while smoking may increase the risk of calcium oxalate stones. Consider reducing alcohol intake and seek support to quit smoking for improved urological health.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Kidney Stones

While many kidney stones can be managed at home, certain situations require prompt medical attention. Recognizing these signs can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

Signs of a Serious Kidney Stone Problem

When should you consult a doctor for kidney stones? Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Severe, persistent pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers
• Fever and chills, which may indicate an infection
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Blood in urine
• Difficulty urinating or passing only small amounts of urine

Medical Interventions for Kidney Stones

What medical treatments are available for kidney stones? Depending on the size and location of the stone, your doctor may recommend:

• Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): Uses sound waves to break up larger stones
• Ureteroscopy: A thin tube is inserted through the urethra to remove or break up the stone
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: Surgical removal of very large stones

How do doctors determine the best treatment approach? They consider factors such as stone size, location, and composition, as well as the patient’s overall health and medical history.

Herbal Remedies and Supplements for Kidney Stone Management

Various herbal remedies and supplements have been traditionally used to support kidney health and manage kidney stones. While scientific evidence varies, some natural options show promise in stone prevention and management.

Herbal Teas for Kidney Health

Certain herbal teas may help support kidney function and reduce the risk of stone formation. Which herbs are beneficial for kidney health?

• Dandelion root: May act as a natural diuretic and support kidney function
• Nettle leaf: Rich in minerals and may help flush out toxins
• Marshmallow root: May soothe the urinary tract and support kidney health
• Hydrangea root: Traditionally used to support kidney and bladder health

How should you prepare these teas? Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs in hot water for 5-10 minutes, strain, and enjoy. Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding new herbal remedies to your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Supplements for Kidney Stone Prevention

Certain supplements may help reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. Which supplements show promise?

• Magnesium: May help prevent calcium oxalate stone formation
• Vitamin B6: May reduce oxalate production in the body
• Citrate supplements: Can help prevent stone formation by increasing urine citrate levels
• Fish oil: May reduce calcium excretion and stone formation risk

Are supplements safe for everyone? While generally considered safe, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. They can help determine the appropriate dosage and ensure there are no interactions with existing medications or health conditions.

Long-term Management and Prevention of Recurrent Kidney Stones

For individuals who have experienced kidney stones, preventing recurrence is a key concern. Implementing long-term strategies can significantly reduce the risk of future stone formation and promote overall urological health.

Regular Follow-up and Monitoring

How often should you have check-ups after a kidney stone episode? Regular follow-up appointments with a urologist or nephrologist are crucial for long-term management. These visits typically include:

• Urine and blood tests to monitor mineral levels and kidney function
• Imaging studies to detect any new stone formation
• Dietary and lifestyle assessments
• Adjustments to prevention strategies as needed

What is the typical follow-up schedule? Initially, you may need more frequent check-ups, such as every 3-6 months. As your condition stabilizes, visits may be reduced to once or twice a year, depending on your individual risk factors and medical history.

Personalized Prevention Plans

Effective long-term prevention often requires a personalized approach. How can you develop a tailored prevention plan? Work closely with your healthcare provider to create a strategy that addresses your specific risk factors. This may include:

• Customized dietary recommendations based on your stone type and risk factors
• Targeted supplement regimens
• Lifestyle modification strategies
• Medication recommendations, if necessary

Why is a personalized approach important? Kidney stone formation can have various underlying causes, and what works for one person may not be effective for another. A tailored plan takes into account your unique medical history, lifestyle, and risk factors to provide the most effective prevention strategy.

Staying Informed and Educated

Ongoing education about kidney stone prevention is crucial for long-term success. How can you stay informed about the latest prevention strategies? Consider these approaches:

• Attend educational seminars or support groups for individuals with kidney stones
• Read reputable health publications and websites for up-to-date information
• Discuss new research and treatment options with your healthcare provider during check-ups
• Consider joining online communities or forums dedicated to kidney stone prevention and management

Why is ongoing education important? As research in urology and nephrology continues to advance, new prevention strategies and treatment options may become available. Staying informed allows you to take an active role in your health management and make informed decisions about your care.

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.