How to Dislodge a Kidney Stone

Kidney stones are minute acid salt and mineral deposits. The matter that makes up kidney stones are typically diluted in urine, but when they crystallize they form a stone that passes during urination. Passing a kidney stone normally causes no permanent damage. But, this process can be very painful and there are ways to help dislodge or move the stone through the urinary track.

Instructions

• 1

  Drink plenty of water, at least 2 to 3 quarts a day, and keep physically active. According to the Mayo Clinic, this can be useful in mild cases.

• 2

  Consider extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy. This procedure uses shock waves to fracture the stones into smaller pieces that are easier to pass.

• 3

  Surgically dislodge or remove the kidney stone. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a procedure in which a surgeon removes the kidney stone through an incision on the back.

• 4

  Snare the kidney stone by having your doctor conduct a ureteroscopic stone removal. This involves a small instrument that is inserted into the ureter and through the bladder.