How to Pass Kidney Stones Fast?

Kidney stones are a common and often painful condition affecting millions globally. These small, hard deposits form in the kidneys and can cause significant discomfort as they move through the urinary tract. While larger stones might need medical treatment, many smaller stones can be passed naturally with the right approach. This blog post will discuss effective methods and strategies for passing kidney stones quickly, but first, it’s essential to understand what kidney stones are and why they form.

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What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are crystalline formations that occur when there is an imbalance in the levels of certain substances in your urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid. When these substances become overly concentrated, they can crystallize and gradually form solid masses. These stones can vary in size from tiny grains of sand to large, golf ball-sized formations. The process begins when high levels of these substances cause them to bind together, eventually creating hard deposits that can cause significant pain and discomfort as they move through the urinary tract.
 

Methods to Pass Kidney Stones Fast

1. Increase Fluid Intake

Boosting your fluid intake is a fundamental approach to passing kidney stones quickly. Drinking plenty of water helps to increase urine production, which can flush out stones more effectively. Proper hydration also dilutes the urine, making it less concentrated and easier for stones to pass through the urinary tract.

Why It Works:

• Enhances urine production to help flush out stones.
• Dilutes urine, reducing concentration and easing passage.

How to Do It:

• Drink 8-12 glasses of water daily.
• Monitor urine color; it should be light yellow to clear.

2- Pain Management

Managing pain effectively is essential when dealing with kidney stones, as severe discomfort can lead to muscle tension and impede the stone's passage. Addressing pain promptly can make the process of passing stones more manageable and less distressing.

Options for Pain Relief:
 

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Prescription pain medications if recommended by your doctor.
• Warm compresses applied to the affected area.
   

Note: Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.

3- Physical Activity

Engaging in light physical activity can facilitate the movement of kidney stones through the urinary tract. Gentle exercises can help propel the stone along, potentially speeding up the process of passing it.

Recommended Activities:

• Walking.
• Light jogging.
• Gentle stretching exercises.

Caution: Avoid high-impact activities that might increase pain.

4- Dietary Modifications

Making dietary changes can help in the passage of kidney stones and reduce the risk of future occurrences. Specific foods and drinks can aid in breaking down stones and supporting overall kidney health, while others should be avoided to prevent stone formation.

Beneficial Foods and Drinks:

• Lemon Juice: Contains citrate, which may help dissolve calcium-based stones.
• Basil Juice: Supports kidney health and may reduce stone formation.
• Pomegranate Juice: High in antioxidants and can help flush out stones.
• Foods High in Magnesium: Such as spinach and nuts.
   

Foods to Avoid:

• High-sodium foods.
• Excessive animal protein.
• Foods high in oxalates, particularly for those with calcium oxalate stones.

5- Medical Expulsive Therapy

In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to assist in passing kidney stones more effectively. These medications work by relaxing the muscles in the ureter, helping the stone move through the urinary tract with less difficulty.

Common Medications:

• Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin).
• Calcium channel blockers.
   

Why It Works:

• Relaxes ureter muscles to facilitate the stone's passage.

6- Stay Upright

Gravity plays a role in moving kidney stones through the urinary tract. Staying upright and avoiding prolonged periods of bed rest can help use gravity to your advantage in facilitating the stone's descent.

How to Do It:

• Spend more time standing or walking.
• Limit excessive bed rest unless advised by your doctor.

7- Diuretics

Diuretics can increase urine production, which helps flush out smaller kidney stones. Both natural and prescribed diuretics can assist in managing the stone and aiding in its passage.

Natural Diuretics:

• Dandelion root tea.
• Parsley water.
• Celery juice.

Caution: Consult with a healthcare professional before using diuretics, especially if you have other medical conditions.

8- Heat Therapy

Applying heat to the affected area can provide relief by relaxing the muscles and reducing pain associated with kidney stones. This approach can also support the passage of the stone by easing discomfort.

How to Apply Heat:

• Use a heating pad on the affected area.
• Take warm baths.
• Apply warm compresses.

9- Percussion Therapy

Percussion therapy involves gently tapping the affected area to help dislodge and move the stone. This technique should be performed carefully and under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.

How to Perform:

• Lie on the side opposite to where you feel pain.
• Have someone gently tap the area with their hand for 5-10 minutes at a time.

Note: This should be done under professional supervision.

10- Herbal Remedies

Certain herbal remedies may assist in passing kidney stones, although scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness varies. Consulting with a healthcare provider before using herbal supplements is essential to avoid potential interactions and ensure suitability.

Potential Herbal Aids:

• Chanca Piedra (known as "stone breaker").
• Horsetail.
• Hydrangea root.

Caution: Consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies.

When to Seek Medical Help

While these methods can be effective for passing smaller kidney stones, it's important to know when professional medical intervention is necessary.

Seek immediate medical attention If:

• Pain becomes severe and unmanageable
• You develop a fever or chills
• You're unable to urinate
• You see blood in your urine
• You experience persistent nausea and vomiting
   

Medical Procedures for Larger Stones

For larger kidney stones or those that do not pass on their own, your doctor may suggest the following treatments:

• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): This procedure uses focused sound waves to break large stones into smaller fragments, making them easier to pass naturally.
• Ureteroscopy: A thin, flexible tube is inserted through the urethra and bladder to reach the stone in the ureter. The stone can then be removed or fragmented with laser or other tools.
• Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: This surgical technique involves making a small incision in the back to remove very large stones directly from the kidney.

These methods aim to alleviate discomfort and facilitate the removal of stones that are too large or problematic to pass naturally.

Meet The Experts Who Can Help You Treat Kidney Stones

Discover the expertise of two of the best urologists in Noida, renowned for their advanced skills in treating kidney stones. Their comprehensive approach ensures exceptional care and effective treatment, providing top-notch solutions for all your kidney stone needs.

Dr. Bhanwar Lal Barkesiya

Dr. Bhanwar Lal Barkesiya, MBBS, MS, FMAS, and MCH (Urology) (Gold Medalist), brings over 9 years of specialized experience in treating kidney stones. As a highly skilled urologist, he excels in a wide range of procedures including URSL, PCNL, and ureterolithotomy. Dr. Barkesiya's expertise also encompasses advanced techniques such as robotic-assisted surgeries and managing urological emergencies. His comprehensive approach ensures expert care in diagnosing and treating kidney stones effectively.

Dr. Sachin Khandelwal

Dr. Sachin Khandelwal, MBBS, MS (Gen Sur), MS (Urology), is a seasoned urologist with over 12 years of expertise in managing kidney stones, among other urological conditions. His extensive experience encompasses kidney blockage, bladder issues, urinary tract infections, and both laparoscopic and open surgeries. Dr. Khandelwal also specializes in renal transplantation and endourology.

Conclusion

Passing kidney stones can be a challenging and painful experience, but with the right approach, you can facilitate their passage and find relief. The effectiveness of these methods can vary depending on the stone's size and type, as well as individual factors. For personalized advice and comprehensive care, especially if you have recurring kidney stones or other health conditions, consulting with a healthcare professional at the best urology hospital in Noida ensures you receive expert guidance to effectively manage kidney stones and maintain your overall urinary health.

Got questions about kidney stones? Call +91 9667064100 or click here for expert answers and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kidney Stones

1.) What is the main cause of kidney stones?  
The main cause of kidney stones is an imbalance in substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, leading to crystallization. Factors include dehydration, high dietary intake of these substances, and certain medical conditions or genetic predispositions.

2.) Is milk bad for kidney stones?  
Milk is not necessarily bad for kidney stones. In fact, it provides calcium, which can help prevent the formation of certain types of stones. However, individuals prone to calcium oxalate stones should balance calcium intake with other dietary considerations and consult a healthcare provider.

3.) Can I dissolve a 7mm kidney stone?  
Dissolving a 7mm kidney stone is challenging and typically requires medical intervention. While some stones may be treated with medications or dietary changes, larger stones often require procedures like shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) or ureteroscopy to break them down.

4.) Is it OK to live with kidney stones?  
Living with kidney stones can be manageable if they are small and asymptomatic. However, larger stones or those causing pain, obstruction, or infection require medical treatment to prevent complications and improve quality of life.

5.) Does walking help pass kidney stones?  
Walking may help pass kidney stones by encouraging movement and potentially facilitating the stone's journey through the urinary tract. However, for effective management, it's important to follow medical advice and consider other treatments if necessary.

6.) How can I manage kidney stone pain?  
Managing kidney stone pain can involve over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, staying hydrated to help the stone pass, and applying warm compresses. For severe pain, prescription medications or medical interventions might be required.

7.) Can stones damage kidneys?  
Yes, kidney stones can damage the kidneys if they cause persistent obstruction or lead to infections. They can impair kidney function, potentially causing complications like hydronephrosis or chronic kidney disease if not treated appropriately.