Kidney Stones: A Painful Problem
Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that form in the kidneys. They can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Passing a kidney stone can be extremely painful, and it can also lead to serious health problems if it blocks the flow of urine.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, more than 1 million people in the United States are diagnosed with kidney stones each year. Men are more likely to develop kidney stones than women, and the risk increases with age.
How to Flush Out Kidney Stones
There are a number of things you can do to help flush out kidney stones, including:
- Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated helps to keep your urine flowing, which can help to prevent kidney stones from forming. Aim to drink eight glasses of water per day.
- Eat a healthy diet. A diet that is low in sodium, oxalate, and phosphorus can help to prevent kidney stones from forming. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and red meat.
- Take medication. There are a number of medications that can help to prevent or treat kidney stones. Your doctor can recommend the best medication for you.
- Get regular exercise. Exercise helps to keep your kidneys healthy and can help to prevent kidney stones from forming. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Lose weight. If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help to reduce your risk of developing kidney stones.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking can damage your kidneys and increase your risk of developing kidney stones.
- Reduce stress. Stress can lead to dehydration, which can increase your risk of developing kidney stones. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
When to See a Doctor
If you have any of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor right away:
- Severe pain in your back, side, or abdomen
- Pain that radiates down your leg
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills
- Blood in your urine
Treatment Options
There are a number of treatment options for kidney stones, depending on the size and location of the stones. Treatment options include:
- Medications. Medications can be used to dissolve small kidney stones or to help them pass more easily.
- Surgery. Surgery may be necessary to remove large or stubborn kidney stones.
- Lithotripsy. Lithotripsy is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to break up kidney stones.
Prevention
The best way to prevent kidney stones is to stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet. You should also avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. If you have a family history of kidney stones, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.
Conclusion
Kidney stones can be a painful problem, but there are a number of things you can do to help flush them out and prevent them from forming in the future. If you are experiencing any symptoms of kidney stones, see a doctor right away.
