Kidney stones are one of the most common urinary tract disorders, affecting approximately 1 in 11 people in the United States. Kidney stones can vary in frequency and severity from person to person. Some people may experience only a few stones throughout their lifetime, while others may have multiple stones yearly.
Kidney stones form when there is a decrease in urine volume or an increase in the substances that form stones in the urine. The most common symptom of kidney stones is pain. If you feel pain near your kidney, you should get yourself checked by a urologist Brooklyn New York.
Steps to prevent kidney stones
Kidney stones are formed when there is an imbalance in the levels of certain substances in the urine. These substances can include calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and cystine. When the levels of these substances become too high, they can form crystals. Over time, these crystals can grow and form stones.
You can take several steps to prevent kidney stones which are mentioned below.
- Increase water intake
Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in your kidneys. They consist of acid salts and minerals, and the size can vary from a grain of sand to a pearl. Kidney stones can be extremely painful and cause serious health problems if not treated.
The best way to prevent kidney stones is to drink plenty of fluids, especially water. You should drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Other fluids, such as juices and soups, can also help prevent kidney stones.
- Increase calcium intake
Calcium is a crucial nutrient for preventing kidney stones. A diet rich in calcium can help reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. Calcium-rich foods include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and calcium-fortified foods.
- Decrease Sodium Intake
Sodium is a major component of kidney stones, so you must decrease your intake to prevent them. There are many ways to do this, but some simple tips include avoiding processed foods high in sodium and cooking with fresh ingredients instead. You can also add herbs and spices to your food to enhance flavor without using salt.
- Decrease Animal Protein Intake
Cutting back on animal protein can help prevent kidney stones. Try to include more plant-based proteins in your diets, such as lentils, beans, and tofu. You should also drink plenty of fluids to keep your urine diluted and help prevent kidney stones from forming.
Signs and symptoms of kidney stones
The signs and symptoms of kidney stones may include:
- Intense pain in the side and back, below the ribs
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
- Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin
- Persistent urge to urinate
- Urinating more often than usual
- Pink, red, or brown blood in your urine
