Kidney Stone Remedy

Kidney stones, accumulations of various minerals and salts, are caused when the natural balance of minerals, water and salts are disturbed. These mineral and salt compounds stick together and, over time, form small rocks. The formations are mainly caused by a lack of water consumption, according to the University of Michigan. Remedies for this condition include shock wave therapy and herbs to help pass smaller kidney stones at home. Speak with your doctor about kidney stone remedies that are appropriate for your condition.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

• According to the University of Michigan, ESWL is the most common remedy to treat medium to large kidney stones. This procedure involves administering shock waves to break up the stones so they can pass more easily through the system. It is a relatively safe procedure, with the most common side effects being blood in the urine and light to moderate bruising to the back and abdomen region, according to the Mayo Clinic.

  This outpatient procedure involves being partially submerged in water or lying on a soft water-filled cushion. The doctor then proceeds to use ultrasound to find the exact location of the stone. When the kidney stones have been found, concentrated sound waves pass through the tissues within the abdomen and break up the stone without damaging the body. Because this procedure can be painful, patients often receive localized anesthesia or oral sedatives.

At-Home Treatment

• According to the University of Maryland, 85% of kidney stones can safely pass throughout the urinary tract without medical aid. A doctor can tell you whether stones are able to be passed at home. If the stones are small enough to pass without a medical procedure, the doctor may prescribe painkillers to numb the discomfort that is associated with this condition. Your physician may also prescribe medicines to help pass the stone and prevent future stones from forming. Some of the most common medications include:

  Potassium citrate: used to raise the pH balance within the urine.

  Cellulose sodium phosphate: mainly used to treat calcium type I kidney stones.

  Allopurinol: used to regulate hyperuricemia (elevated uric acid levels in the blood).

  Hydrochlorothiazide: also used to treat calcium type 1 kidney stones.

  Orthophosphates: used for calcium type III kidney stones.

  After the physician has prescribed the appropriate medications, it is vital that you do not consume any stimulants such as alcohol, coffee and other caffeine. Also, drink at least 10 glasses (8 oz. each) of purified water per day. The University of Maryland also suggests exercising for at least 30 minutes per day.