How to Stop Kidney Stones From Forming

When it comes to pain, there are not many life events that can top it. Kidney stone pain is known to cause pain all over the body and be excruciating if the stone is a larger size. This can lead to fever/chills, urine in the blood, and other unpleasant symptoms. Kidney stones affect about 1-11 people in the United States, which means you probably are one of those people or know someone who is affected by them. If you want to know how to stop kidney stones from forming in the first place then look no further. We can help! Here are a few tips for how to stop kidney stones from forming:

1. Drink water and fluids
2. Stop smoking
3. Eat less salt
4. Avoid animal-based protein
5. Be proactive

Drink water and fluids

The most common form of kidney stones is a product of the build-up of calcium in your kidneys. To prevent this calcium from forming and hardening consider drinking lots of fluid, mainly water, to help. Drinks high in citrus can also help you disintegrate the calcium that may be building in your body. Keeping your kidneys happy requires that you change your diet for the better. The best part? This can most likely result in weight loss which is great for keeping your prostate healthy, too.  

Drinking fluids is how to stop kidney stones from forming on a daily basis. Urinating often and flushing your kidneys will prevent the build-up of calcium. Keep in mind though, there are other types of kidney stones such as oxalate, which are build-ups of other substances. However, drinking water often can still be effective.

Stop smoking

If you truly want to know how to stop kidney stones from forming, then you must consider quitting smoking or lessen your dependency upon it. Smoking will slow the flow of blood to the kidneys. In turn, the kidneys then starting building up substances quicker until it forms a kidney stone. If you are considering quitting, we recommend that you do. Not only does smoking have serious health risks, but it also can and will affect you in the short term.

Eat less salt

Say no to salt? How could we! Unfortunately, salt can actually keep calcium from being reabsorbed back into the bloodstream. Meaning that it starts to build up and harden in your kidneys. Salt is used in just about everything, from keeping canned vegetables fresh to the special seasoning you put on steaks. Cutting down your salt intake will require you to be vigilant on your part. Consider some fresh vegetable options, or replacing certain meals entirely.

Avoid animal-based protein

When it comes to how to stop kidney stones from forming, one of the tricks is to stop or reduce your intake of meats from animals. Why? These proteins contain a high level of acid. This acid then can develop into uric acid and oxalate kidney stones. You can knock out two birds with one stone by having more vegetarian options in your diet. Before making any drastic changes though, consult with your doctor or urologist to see what is best for your health needs.

Be proactive

If you want the best knowledge on how to stop kidney stones from forming, then you need to proactive with your care. Visit your doctor or urologist and craft a plan that works best for your needs. You might be surprised to discover the unique cause behind your specific kidney stones and to realize how little you have to change..

Are you having trouble with kidney stones and need help? At Northwoods Urology we put patient’s needs and comforts at the forefront. We are a judgment-free urology clinic that can help you with your needs. Contact us today to find out how we can help you!