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Water Cure for Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hardened accumulations of minerals and salts derived from urine. They form within the kidney or the urinary tract, and when passed through the tract they can cause intense pain. Normally, the body prevents mineral deposits from crystallizing, but when urine becomes overly concentrated, stones can develop. In some cases, kidney stones are chronic and difficult to eradicate. Frequently though, getting rid of them, or preventing them in the first place, is as simple as drinking a few extra glasses of water a day.

  1. Symptoms and Causes

    • If you have kidney stones, you might not even know it. Very small stones are common, and pass through the urinary tract without any outward sign. Problems begin when stones become large enough to impede the flow of urine. Stones of this size scrape the walls of the urinary tract, causing sharp pains in the lower back, side or abdomen. If you experience these symptoms, you should see your doctor for advice and treatment.
      Kidney stones develop for a number of reasons. Some people are genetically susceptible to them, and the trait can be passed down through generations. Other potential causes include kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, gout and the use of certain medications for high blood pressure, seizures and HIV infection. Sometimes there is more than one cause, or no known cause at all. If you see a doctor for kidney stones, be prepared to discuss your family and medical histories so you can help determine contributing factors. Your doctor will also probably ask you for a urine sample, since analyzing this may provide important clues to your condition.

    Treating Kidney Stones With Water

    • Water intake is important to both short-term treatment of active kidney stones and long-term prevention of recurrence. Whatever the source of your kidney stones, your doctor will likely prescribe an increase in fluids, typically 2 qt. or 3 qt. a day, to push an active stone through. Frequently, that and a temporary painkiller will be all you need to make it through an episode. However, passing even one kidney stone increases your chances for developing a chronic condition. To prevent this from happening, your doctor may ask you to establish a permanent program of drinking enough water to produce a high daily urine output.

    Preventing Kidney Stones With Water

    • The Mayo Clinic lists lack of fluids at the top of the list for kidney stone risk factors. The problem can be particularly heightened in hot, dry climates. Regularly exercising without replenishing liquids can also make you more susceptible. Make sure to guard your health if any of these factors apply directly to you. If you are not genetically predisposed, drinking plenty of fluids can help you avoid developing any kidney stones at all.

    Can Water Intake Stop Surgery?

    • Most of the almost 3 million annual sufferers of kidney stones do not require surgery. Generally speaking, simpler techniques like increased water intake can be enough to avoid further difficulties. Some stones are simply too large to pass through the urinary tract, even with extra help. In these cases, surgery may be necessary. Consult your doctor about potential options.

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