Help for kidney stones should be sought from a trained medical professional. Many times stones will pass on their own, but a doctor should be notified for testing and treatment advice. Natural or homeopathic practitioners may also offer advice once a proper diagnosis is made. There are various treatments which can be performed at home, although sometimes surgery is needed.
A doctor can give an accurate diagnosis of kidney stones, which are accumulations of calcium oxalate in the kidneys. They can cause severe pain and symptoms similar to urinary tract infection. The level of discomfort usually correlates with the size of the stones.
The main source of help for kidney stones is one’s doctor. Many times treatments can be done at home. These can include taking certain vitamins and herbs, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding specific foods. This should be overseen by a doctor or natural health practitioner to ensure that proper dosages are taken. Tests may also be done to see if the stones have passed and to detect additional stones.
Most natural and homeopathic professionals will recommend herbs and dietary changes to provide help for kidney stones. These methods are often effective and may help patients avoid surgery. They may also offer assistance with additional therapies such as acupressure and natural pain relief to use before the stones pass. Patients may work with various professionals to get the most out of treatment.
Most patients will eventually get well on their own with proper dietary changes and activity, but some may require additional help for kidney stones. This generally comes in the form of surgery to remove them. Surgical intervention is generally reserved for those with very large and hard to pass stones, or those who are in very severe pain. Patients who have multiple large stones are the most likely candidates for surgical removal.
Many natural sources of help for kidney stones are best at preventing them in the first place. B vitamins combined with magnesium, for instance, have been shown to prevent kidney stones in those who have had them previously. Exact dosages should be prescribed by a medical professional to reduce the risk of side effects. Drinking plenty of water can also help prevent the recurrence of stones.
