If you have ever had a kidney stone you know the experience can be extremely unpleasant. Did you know that over the course of lifetime, one in ten people will have a kidney stone?
If your doctor suspects you have a kidney stone, you may be asked to have diagnostic tests done.
- Blood Testing: Too much calcium or uric acid in your blood could be of concern. Blood test may also help monitor the health of your kidneys.
- Urine Testing: A 24 Hour urine collection test may reveal that you are exreting too many stone forming minerals.
- Ultra-sound Scanning: Imaging tests may show kidney stones in your urinary tract.
- Passed Stones Analysis: Your passed stone may reveal the makeup of your kidney stones.
Prevention of kidney stones may include a combination of lifestyle changes and medication.
Drink Fluid: People with the history of kidney stones are recommended to drink about 2.5 liters of water per day. If you live in a hot dry climate and sweat a lot then you may need to drink even more water so that you produce enough urine. A light and clear urine indicate that you are drinking enough water.
Oxalate-Rich Foods: Your doctor may ask you to prevent oxalate rich foods. Cutting oxalate rich food may sound logical but this may not be smart for an overall health perspective. Eat and drink calcium and oxalate rich foods together during a meal. Doing so, they are more likely to bind in the stomach and intestines before they kidneys begin processing.
Diet Selection: Reduce the amount of salt and choose non-animal protein sources. Consider using a salt substitute such as herbs or spices.
Manage underlying Medical Problems: Some medical conditions like obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes can raise your risk for kidney stones.
Treatment may be required if the diet and drinking water does not work. Consult us for further information. There are herbal and safer ways to address this problem.