According to MayoClinic.com, kidney stones are made of mineral and acid salt deposits that form in the kidneys. Several factors contribute to kidney stone development, including certain foods, metabolic disorders and an imbalance of calcium, oxalate and uric acid, notes the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. In most cases, kidney stones do not cause permanent damage; however, persistent pain and discomfort can occur. Additional symptoms include fever, nausea and urine discoloration. In the event of severe pain with inability to sit, or pain with vomiting and fever, consult your physician immediately as this could indicate complications requiring medical intervention.
Step 1
Drink plenty of water. The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse suggests drinking enough water throughout the day to produce at least 2 qt. of urine per a 24-hour period. This equals approximately 10 glasses a day.
Step 2
Eat dairy products or high calcium foods. According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, calcium-rich foods such as milk, cheese and broccoli are effective in preventing calcium kidney stones. However, taking a calcium pill is not recommended as this will induce formation of stones rather than prevent stones.
Step 3
Take vitamin C supplements to dissolve stones. Ascorbic acid in the form of vitamin C dissolves phosphate in the kidney stones, the website Doctor Yourself says. A large dose of vitamin C per day--at approximately 60 to 200 mg--will offer relief. MayoClinic.com notes that drinking orange juice daily may also serve the purpose of dissolving stones; however, little evidence supports this as a method that's useful for all people.
Step 4
Eat foods with low oxalate levels. MayoClinic.com explains that high levels of oxalates in the kidneys contribute to stone formation. Foods with low oxalate include bananas, cucumbers and watermelon. Replace high oxalate foods such as chocolate, okra or spinach with low oxalate foods while trying to pass kidney stones.
Step 5
Reduce the amount of salt and animal protein in your diet. MayoClinic.com notes that salt and fatty animal protein increases the risk of kidney stones. Non-animal protein from nuts and legumes is safe when trying to find relief from kidney stones.
Tips and Warnings
- If the pain is intense, talk to your physician about over-the-counter pain relief options.
- Avoid drinking grapefruit juice as this will increase stone formation, the website At Home Kidney Stone Relief notes.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Vitamin C
- Dairy products
- Bananas
- Broccoli
- Cucumbers
- Watermelon
