How to prevent Kidney Stones.

Summer is here and this season increases the risk of kidney stones. Kidney stones can be very painful till the pass. If they are too big, then they may require interventional treatment. This pain however, can be avoided with a few preventive steps that can prevent the formation or reduce the risk of formation of kidney stones.

Tips to prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Drink plenty of water

Concentrated urine has a higher mineral content and lower water content. This increases the risk of formation of stones, especially in summer and when you exercise. Drinking plenty of water keeps your urine less saturated and considerably decreases the risk of stone formation. If your urine is dark then you should drink more water. Drink about 8 glasses of water every day.

Be careful while eating processed food

Kidney stones are of different types and made of different chemicals. Certain chemicals increase the risk of stone formation. Avoid or limit intake of foods that contain too much sodium chloride, monosodium glutamate (MSG) and sodium nitrate.

Reduce salt intake

Calcium has to be reabsorbed from the urine. If there is too much salt in the urine this reabsorption is not very effective leading to high levels of calcium in the urine. Limiting salt intake reduces the risk of formation of calcium stones as calcium is reabsorbed into the blood.

Combine oxalate rich foods with calcium rich foods

Oxalate and calcium combine in the digestive system reducing the chances of stone formation in the kidneys. By eating them together, you can reduce the risk of kidney stones. Oxalate rich foods include spinach, chocolate, sweet potatoes, coffee, beets and peanuts.

Limit intake of animal protein

Animal protein is acidic and may make the acidic. This will increase the risk of formation of uric acid and calcium oxalate crystals. Limit beef, poultry, fish and pork to reduce risk of kidney stones.

Include citrus foods in your diet

Citric acid helps in reducing the risk of kidney stone formation. Eat more citrus fruits or drink citrus fruit juice.

Kidney stones can be caused by genetic causes. If anyone in your family has had kidney stones you are at greater risk of getting them. If you get it once, you may get it again later. Take these preventive steps to decrease your risk.

If you have severe sharp fluctuating pain in the side and back below the ribs, burning sensation while urinating, pink, red or brown urine, nausea or vomiting, fever or chills, you may have a kidney stone. Consult our specialist for the best medical and interventional treatment.