Kidney stones are formations made up of either calcium or uric acid crystals that are found in the urine. The stones are hard, solid masses and can become quite painful. The National Kidney Foundation states that 90 percent of kidney stones will dissolve and pass on their own. For the unlucky 10 percent of kidney stone sufferers whose stones remain in the body, medical treatment is required.
Step 1
Drink between 2 and 3 quarts of water every day to help dissolve kidney stones that are composed of uric acid. Your doctor can perform blood or urine tests to find out what type of kidney stones you have. Uric acid is a substance found in the urine and clumps together when the urine is too concentrated. Water dilutes the urine and may help the stones to pass.
Step 2
Take a medication called acetohydroxamic acid to help dissolve uric acid kidney stones. This medication is called a urease inhibitor, and can both dissolve the present stones and prevents additional uric acid crystals from forming.
Step 3
Receive a treatment called ESWL, or extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy. Shock waves are used to break down the kidney stones into more manageable pieces, which may then be excreted through urination. ESWL may be performed under sedation on an outpatient basis.
Step 4
Have your kidney stones removed surgically. Kidney stones that are made of calcium do not dissolve through the use of medication as uric acid stones do, making it more likely that you will require surgery. This procedure is called percutaneous nephrolithotomy.
Things You'll Need
- Medication
