You may have already heard about kidney stones. And may be aware that these can cause a lot of pain. And that you will have to resort to medications or surgery to get rid of them.

Sounds worrisome? Have you ever wondered if there are ways to prevent kidney stones to avoid the hassles related to kidney stones management?

Yes, there are. And it is always wise to prevent a condition from happening beforehand.

In case of kidney stones, there are various ways that you can try to prevent kidney stone formation in the first place.

Mykare Health is here to help you explore some of these ways.

What is a Kidney Stone?

By now, you may be aware of what kidney stones are. Still, let’s go for a brief recap before we dive into the preventive measures.

A kidney stone is a crystalline deposit which forms in the kidneys. These substances can include calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals. Kidney stones are of different sizes. They can cause severe pain when they pass through the urinary tract.

Now, here are some wow tips that can help you stay away from kidney stones. Let’s get them one by one.

Stay Hydrated

Note: Proper hydration is an important factor in preventing kidney stones.

How does hydration help in preventing kidney stones?

• Proper amount of water intake helps in diluting the concentration of minerals and salts in the urine, making it less likely for stones to develop.
• Hydration increases urine production and promotes a higher urine flow rate, which helps in preventing the formation of kidney stones.
• Staying well hydrated ensures to maintain optimal kidney function and prevent the urine from becoming too concentrated.
• Drinking water helps prevent oxalates from concentrating in the kidneys and forming crystals.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Does a balanced diet really help in preventing kidney stones?

Ofcourse diet plays a crucial role here. Lets see why?

• Aim to have at least 8-10 glasses of water daily, or more to have good hydration
• Limit your sodium intake.
• Be mindful of restaurant dishes, which often contain high levels of sodium.
• Limit the consumption of red meat, and seafood, as they may contribute to certain types of kidney stones.
• Ensure you take a good level of calcium.
• Include dairy food, leafy green vegetables, and plant-based milk alternatives in your diet.
• Limit the intake of tea and coffee in your diet.
• Maintain a healthy weight to prevent obesity.

Take Supplementation

What is the role of various supplements here?

Shall we consume these supplements? What should be the quantity? And what if they exceed a certain level in our body?

• Adequate calcium intake is essential for preventing the formation of calcium oxalate stones.
• Vitamin B6 has been shown to reduce the risk of forming oxalate stones.
• Adequate vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption. However, excessive vitamin D intake can lead to increased calcium levels, potentially increasing the risk of kidney stones.
• Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil may help reduce the risk of kidney stones.

Note: Supplements should be taken within limits, as excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals can have an adverse effect and may increase the risk of kidney stones in some cases.

Regular Check ups

• Regular check-ups are essential for kidney stone prevention.
• Schedule regular visits with your primary care physician.
• Include kidney function tests, such as blood tests to measure creatinine levels and estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
• Regular urinalysis can help detect abnormalities in the urine.
• Periodic imaging studies, such as an abdominal ultrasound or a CT scan may be included.
• Regularly discuss your hydration habits with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on optimal fluid intake based on your individual needs and lifestyle.
• Discuss lifestyle factors with your healthcare provider, including physical activity, weight management, and stress management.

By following these tips, you can ensure good health for your kidneys and can effectively prevent kidney stones formation.

Staying hydrated, following a balanced diet, going for regular check-ups and using supplements based on the instructions of your doctor can help you avoid all the pain and the challenges involved in diagnosing and treating kidney stones.