Kidney stones are a painful and common medical condition. They can be difficult to get rid of, but there are many ways you can help pass them naturally. Here are some things to consider about how to get rid of kidney stones more quickly and easily and also prevent them. The most common cause of kidney stones is the body’s inability to properly process calcium and oxalate. This can be treated by increasing your fluid intake, reducing processed foods in your diet, taking a magnesium supplement, drinking cranberry juice with plenty of water, or reducing dairy products like cheese and milk. If you’re experiencing any symptoms that could indicate a kidney stone forming such as burning sensations when urinating or painful urination then it’s time to see a doctor right away before things get worse.
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form inside the kidneys. They can be anywhere from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in size. While most stones pass through the urinary tract on their own, others may cause pain and other complications.
How long does it take for kidney stones to pass?
If you are experiencing any pain while passing stones, an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin IB) or acetaminophen may be able to help. Your doctor also might prescribe an alpha-blocker that relaxes muscles in your ureter and helps pass the stones quicker. Kidney stones might take several weeks to a month to pass.
Tips on passing and preventing kidney stones
- The good news is that you can cut your risk of developing kidney stones by 50% just with how much fluids you drink, and water can also help pass kidney stones faster. That’s because those who produce 2-2 1/2 liters daily are less likely to have a problem than those producing less than one liter per day. It takes about 8 glasses every waking hour for this amount, so make sure there isn’t anything holding back from drinking enough water.
- 2. Lemon juice is a natural way to prevent kidney stones. Citrate, which can be found in lemons and limes but not grapefruit, binds with calcium leading to less formation of stone-forming compounds on your urinary tract wall while also providing significant amounts of vitamin C suitable for quick absorption by our bodies as well. Next time you’re reaching for your water, consider adding some sliced lemons.
- Low sodium diet: Cutting down on salt can help you avoid kidney stones. A high-sodium diet speeds up the loss of calcium in your urine, which could lead to the formation or worsening symptoms of this condition if left unchecked.
- The intake of animal proteins such as meat and seafood can lead to an increase in uric acid levels. If you are prone to blockages, limit your daily consumption by Eating no more than one pack of playing cards worth (or less) per day. When it comes to kidney stones there are some foods that you should avoid because they increase the number of oxalates in your body which could increase your risk for kidney stones. These include spinach, beets, and almonds among others, but there is still room for moderation with low-oxalate foods like chocolate or berries.
The Michigan Institute of Urology is one of the longest-standing and largest sub-specialty Urology practices in the State of Michigan, we are dedicated to providing our patients the most up-to-date, state-of-the-art urologic care. Our specialists have been recruited from the most sophisticated university centers in the United States and are available at all of our 22 office locations. Our administrative staff follows strict guidelines to ensure the most cost-effective medical care is provided. Michigan Institute of Urology, P.C., is comprised of 46 General and Fellowship Trained Urologists with a complement of compassionate, caring Nurse Practitioners, Registered Nurses, Medical Assistants, and Ancillary Personnel.
