A Comprehensive Guide to Kidney Stones: How to Get Rid of Them and What Causes Them

💎Kidney stones are common, affecting around 1 in 11 adults in the United States. Most people develop them between the ages of 40 and 60.

🌊Drinking enough fluids, ideally 2.5 liters or more per day, can help prevent kidney stones by maintaining a healthy urine volume.

🌶️A high salt diet and excessive consumption of animal protein can increase the risk of kidney stones. Reducing salt intake and moderating animal protein consumption may help prevent them.

🥦Foods with high levels of oxalate, such as spinach, rhubarb, beets, and nuts, can contribute to the formation of certain types of kidney stones. Limiting their consumption may be beneficial.

👥Obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and issues with cholesterol can also increase the risk of kidney stones. Maintaining a healthy weight and managing these conditions is crucial.

What are the symptoms of kidney stones?

—Symptoms can include pain in the flank or abdomen, blood in the urine, pain with urination, and a frequent urge to urinate.

How long does it take to pass a kidney stone?

—The duration depends on the size of the stone. On average, it can take up to 8 days for stones measuring 2 millimeters or less, and up to 40 days for larger stones.

What can I do to help pass a kidney stone?

—Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, and medications like tamsulosin can also help. Sexual intercourse may provide relief and facilitate stone passage.

Are kidney stones preventable?

—While not all cases are preventable, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying hydrated, and avoiding excessive salt, animal protein, and oxalate-rich foods can reduce the risk of developing kidney stones.

When should I see a doctor?

—It is recommended to see a urologist if you experience recurrent urinary tract infections, have a family history of kidney stones, or if you are concerned about your kidney stone symptoms.

07:45The size of a kidney stone affects the time it takes to pass, with smaller stones typically passing within 8-12 days. Large stones may require medical intervention.

02:23Low urine volume, often due to insufficient fluid intake, can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Drinking at least 2.5 liters of fluids per day can help prevent stones.

03:58A high salt diet and excessive animal protein consumption can contribute to kidney stone formation. Moderating salt intake and animal protein consumption is advisable.

03:13Foods rich in oxalate, including spinach, rhubarb, beets, and nuts, can increase the risk of certain kidney stones. Limiting their consumption may be beneficial.

06:26Obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol issues are associated with a higher risk of kidney stones. Managing these conditions and maintaining a healthy weight is important.

04:48Symptoms of kidney stones can include pain in the flank or abdomen, blood in the urine, pain with urination, and a frequent urge to urinate.

08:04Drinking plenty of fluids, taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and engaging in sexual intercourse can help facilitate the passage of kidney stones.

01:02Kidney stones are common, affecting about 1 in 11 adults in the United States. They are most prevalent between the ages of 40 and 60.