How to Pass Kidney Stones Naturally

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that sit in the abdomen and filter blood while producing urine. After producing urine, the urine flows to the bladder through the ureters. Some individuals can experience hard stones that form in the urinary tract, including the kidneys. These masses, also referred to as kidney stones, form due to a heavy saturation of salt in the urine and excessive amounts of calcium in the kidney. Symptoms of a kidney stone include pain in the back, abdomen and pelvis, sweating and a frequent urge to urinate. Stones that do not lodge in the urinary tract will usually pass naturally.

Step 1

Drink plenty of water. A simple way to have the kidney stones to pass naturally is to increase fluid intake. Drinking at least 12 8-ounce glasses of water will help flush the kidney stone out of the body, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The affected individual can also drink other clear liquids, such as sodas and fruit juices. The increased fluid intake will also help prevent future kidney stones, if continued.

Step 2

Reduce the consumption of caffeine. The caffeine can cause the body to lose fluids quickly due to increased urination after drinking the product. This quick depletion of fluids can cause harm to the kidneys.

Step 3

Get an intravenous infusion to increase fluid intake. For individuals unable to drink large amounts of water, receiving fluids through the vein is an option, according to the Merck Manuals. Medical staff can administer intravenous fluids after establishing an intravenous line in the person with the kidney stone.

Step 4

Take an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help relieve the pain from the kidney stone. Follow instructions on the individual medication bottle or speak with physician or pharmacist for safety concerns and proper dosing procedures.

References

Article reviewed by Brad Walters Last updated on: Aug 8, 2010

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