How To Treat Kidney Stones And Prevent Them In The Future

Posted on: 12 April 2021

Kidney stones are small mineral deposits in your kidneys and are more common among people who are obese, eat high-sodium diets, and do not drink enough water. Although they are not life-threatening, they can cause extreme discomfort. There are several ways to treat kidney stones and prevent them in the future.

Ways to Treat Kidney Stones

The type of kidney stone treatment you receive will depend on different factors, such as the size of the stone and how you got it in the first place. Here are some common treatment options.

  • Medications: If your kidney stones are fairly small, your doctor may prescribe an alpha blocker. This medication eases tension in the muscles in your ureter, making it easier for you to pass the stone.
  • Surgery: If you have very large kidney stones, you may require surgery to remove them. During the procedure, a surgeon will make a small incision in your back and proceed to remove the stones.
  • Ureteroscopy: If there's a smaller stone caught in your ureter, ureteroscopy may be the best method to remove it. During this process, your doctor will insert a ureteroscope with a camera into your urethra. After your doctor finds the stone, he or she will use a small cage to get rid of it.

Ways to Avoid Kidney Stones in the Future

Once you have had kidney stones, you want to do everything possible to avoid getting them again. By making some adjustments to your lifestyle, you may be less likely to get them a second time.

  • Reduce Your Salt Intake: Consuming a high-sodium diet can increase your risk of getting kidney stones. If you're more mindful about how much sodium you consume, you can decrease your risk of kidney stones. For example, instead of using table salt to flavor your dishes, use healthier spices, like thyme and rosemary.
  • Stay Hydrated: One of the most effective ways to prevent kidney stones is to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. If you work out often, you should drink even more water throughout the day.
  • Eat Less Animal Protein: If you have excess animal protein in your diet, your body will produce higher levels of uric acid, increasing your risk of stones. To reduce your risk, consume more non-animal sources of protein, like legumes and tofu.

If you have kidney stones, seek medical treatment promptly. Contact a doctor in your area to learn more about your options.


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