Kidney stones may be quite painful, therefore it's critical to take precautions to prevent them from forming. These hard deposits, which are made up of salts and minerals, form inside the kidneys and come in different sizes. While some normally pass through the urinary canal, bigger stones might need to be removed by a doctor. You may drastically lower your chance of kidney stones by learning the reasons and making a few lifestyle adjustments.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
When the fluid in the urine cannot dilute the concentration of crystal-forming chemicals including calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, kidney stones can develop. Among the risk factors are:
- Dehydration: Not getting enough water causes concentrated urine, which raises the possibility of kidney stones.
- Dietary practices: Eating a lot of animal protein, salt, and foods high in oxalates (such as nuts and spinach) might cause stones to develop.
- Genetics: You may be more likely to get kidney stones if your family has a history of them.
- Medical conditions: Several ailments, including hyperparathyroidism and recurrent UTIs, might increase the risk.
- Medication: Kidney stones can result from taking certain medications, such as those used to manage high blood pressure.
Tips to Prevent Kidney Stones
There are several practical strategies to lower the risk of kidney stones, even if certain risk factors—such as genetics—cannot be altered.
1. Stay Hydrated
Remaining hydrated is the most crucial step in avoiding kidney stones. Water consumption has a major role in the dilution of urine-forming chemicals. Try to drink eight to twelve glasses of water a day, or more if you live in a hot area or are physically active.
2. Be Aware of the Sodium You Eat
An excessively salty diet raises the calcium content of the urine, which can lead to kidney stones. Stones can be avoided by consuming no more than 2,300 mg of salt each day. Steer clear of packaged and processed foods as they are frequently heavy in salt.
3. Limit Foods High in Oxalates
Certain meals naturally include oxalates, which are substances that can encourage the development of stones. Limiting your consumption of certain items can be beneficial, but complete avoidance is not required. Items rich in oxalates consist of:
- Spinach
- Beets
- Rhubarb
- Nuts
- Sweet potatoes
Given that calcium binds to oxalates and decreases their absorption, eating these foods alongside meals high in calcium can help lower the risk.
4. Increase Calcium Intake
Reducing calcium intake does not prevent stones, despite what many people think. In actuality, elevated oxalate levels might result from low calcium levels, raising the danger. Make sure your diet includes dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified meals to ensure you're receiving enough calcium.
5. Moderate Protein Consumption
Consuming too much animal protein can increase your body's uric acid levels, which might result in kidney stones. Although protein is necessary, it should be consumed in moderation. To add variety to your diet, use plant-based proteins like lentils and chickpeas.
6. Control Your Weight
Because obesity alters the content of urine and puts extra strain on the kidneys, it has been associated with kidney stones. The risk of stone development can be decreased by eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
7. Pay Attention to Certain Medications
The risk of kidney stones can be raised by some drugs, such as those used to treat gout or high blood pressure. Consult your doctor about potential alternatives or strategies to reduce the risk if you're worried about how your medicine may affect the health of your kidneys.
8. Herbal Treatments
Several herbal medicines, such as Rompepiedras (Chanca Piedra), are thought to aid in the prevention of kidney stones. For ages, South American civilizations have utilized this traditional plant to cure and prevent kidney stones. Even if some research indicates potential, speak with your doctor before beginning any new herbal treatment routine.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
It might be beneficial to identify kidney stone symptoms so that you can get treatment before they get worse. Among the symptoms are:
- severe lower abdominal, side, or back discomfort
- Urine with blood in it
- uncomfortable or frequent urination
- vomiting or feeling queasy
- murky or offensive-smelling pee
See a doctor right once if you suffer any of these symptoms, particularly if you have a fever or chills.
When to Consult a Doctor
Even while prevention is the goal, you should see a doctor right away if you think you may have kidney stones. Surgery may be necessary to remove stones that are too big to pass by natural means or those that are infected. Treatment can be facilitated and problems can be avoided with early identification.
