Kidney stones are small crystal deposits that form in the urine in the kidneys, and can be quite painful. The pain generally starts in the lower back and side, and moves to the front of the body as the kidney stones travel through the system. There are a few home remedies for kidney stones that may be able to speed up the process and relieve pain. One of the best home remedies for kidney stones, as well as an excellent prevention, is simply to increase liquid intake.
Generally, kidney stones resolve on their own, and it is not necessary to visit a doctor. It may become necessary, however, if kidney stones occur frequently, or if they are accompanied by a fever or vomiting. There are various methods doctors use in order to break up larger kidney stones to make them easier to pass, including the use of targeted sound waves. Surgery is typically a last resort for treatment of kidney stones.
Increasing fluid intake is the single most recommended home remedy for kidney stones. One is generally encouraged to drink as much water as possible, approximately eight to ten glasses per day, and to urinate as much as possible. Not only will this help to pass the kidney stones, but it will prevent new ones from forming. Drinking enough water during the day should become a habit, because it is necessary for all body functions, not just prevention of kidney stones. Other beverages can help to increase fluid intake as well, but it is generally recommended that one avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages when seeking home remedies for kidney stones.
In addition to drinking water, one of the other most recommended home remedies for kidney stones is to take over-the-counter pain relievers. The condition can be very painful, and pain relievers may be able to help. Some doctors request that patients urinate through a strainer in order to collect the kidney stones to determine what causes them; learning the cause of kidney stones is a great way to prevent them in the future.
These home remedies for kidney stones are typically the only ones recommended. In order to prevent kidney stones, some people find that cutting back on certain foods can be helpful, particularly meat, fish, salt, and sugary foods; high-protein diets are a common cause of kidney stones. Others find that regular exercise helps to prevent the kidney stones from forming.