Preventing kidney stones is the best step for avoiding serious kidney problems later on. Kidney stones are crystalline formations composed of calcium, oxalates and phosphates. Normally the urine has chemicals that prevent the clumping up of these crystals together to prevent the formation of large stones. However, this chemical may not work uniformly in all people, so that there are some people who are more prone to kidney stones compared to others. Generally, people with a family history of kidney stones are more prone to developing kidney stones themselves. Kidney stones are often very painful to pass. In severe cases they may become too large that they scrape against the walls of the ureter, causing bleeding in the urine. Fortunately, one can take measures for preventing kidney stones.
Diet for Preventing Kidney Stones
There are various types of foods that may promote the formation of crystals and stones. Foods to avoid in the diet for those who are prone to kidney-stone formation include apples, cheese, chocolate, coffee, figs, tea, yogurt and fruits with high levels of Vitamin C. These foods have high oxalate levels which promote crystalline formation more than other kinds of food.
Foods that contain too much salt should also be minimized or avoided when preventing kidney stones since salt increases the excretion of calcium and therefore increases the level of calcium in the urine. However, contrary to popular belief, studies are showing that intake of food rich in calcium is good for sufferers of kidney stones. This is because high calcium in the diet blocks the chemical action which leads to the formation of stones when it attaches to oxalates in the intestine, preventing the whole formation from being absorbed into the bloodstream and being passed through the kidneys.
Water Therapy for Preventing Kidney Stones
Drinking plenty of fluids is one of the best ways of preventing kidney stones. Fluids, especially water dilute the concentration of calcium and other minerals that make up the crystalline formations that become kidney stones. Two and a half liters of water a day is good for decreasing the risk of crystalline formation in people who are prone to stones.
Medication for Preventing Kidney Stones
Medications may also be given to prevent the formation of calcium and uric acid stones. These control the amount of acid and alkali present in the urine to reduce the risk of crystal formation. Allopurinol is useful in lowering the risk of uric acid stones. Another medication is sodium cellulose phosphate, given to patients with very high calcium in the blood. The drug binds calcium in the intestine so excess calcium does not pass into the urine.
The ways for preventing kidney stones are varied but very effective. Following a diet that is low in phosphate and uric acid, drinking plenty of water, and taking medications when needed are effective at preventing kidney stones. Regular visits to the doctor is also important, since he or she can perform tests to determine if stones are present. Preventing kidney stones should be a top priority, since passing them is not a pleasant experience.
