Kidney stones are a widespread, painful disease that affects crores of individuals around the world. These stones occur when salts and minerals in urine crystallize and bind together. Tiny stones tend to pass through the urinary tract without requiring medical attention, but the discomfort they cause can be horrible. Kidney stones must be tackled during the passing process in order to reduce discomfort and suffering. Fortunately, there are some home remedies that can help reduce kidney stone discomfort and assist the natural passing of stones. Below, we’ll look at some of the most effective ways to get relief.
This blog, authored by nephrologists in Bangalore at Urosonic, will help you to use home remedy for getting relief from kidney stone pain and discomfort.
What are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are hard lumps of both salts and minerals that occur within the kidneys. They form when urine involves too many chemicals that create crystals, which can eventually turn into ureteral stones.
How do they form?
Kidney stones can occur when waste materials in the blood crystallize and accumulate in the kidneys, eventually forming hard lumps. It can occur when the urine has a large amount of specific chemicals, like calcium, oxalate, cystine, or uric acid. However, when these compounds are present in normal concentrations, stones can develop.
Home remedies for kidney stone pain relief
1. Stay Hydrated
One of the easiest and most effective methods to ease kidney stone pain is to drink plenty of liquid. Staying hydrated dilutes urine and drains out toxins, which can help prevent future stones from forming and push existing ones through the urinary tract.
How to Do It:
- Aim to consume at least 3 liters of water every day.
- Include fluids such as lemon water or herbal teas, which may have extra benefits (see below).
- Avoid sugary drinks, soda, and alcohol, which might aggravate the condition.
Why does it work?
Adequate hydration keeps your urine diluted, lowering the risk of stones developing larger and becoming more uncomfortable.
2. Lemon water.
Lemons contain citrate, a chemical believed to reduce stone formation and break down smaller stones.
How to Prepare:
- Squeeze the juice of one or two lemons into a glass of warm or room temperature water.
- Drink this mixture 2-3 times a day, preferably in the morning and evening.
Why does it work?
Citrate binds to calcium in urine and keeps it from crystallizing into stones. It may also help dissolve tiny stones, making them easier to pass.
3. Apple cider vinegar.
Because of its ability to dissolve stones and alleviate discomfort, vinegar made from apple cider is a popular kidney stone treatment.
How to Use:
- Mix 1-2 teaspoons of ACV with a cup of water.
- Drink this mixture before eating and prior to retiring to bed.
Why does it work?
Acetic acid in apple cider Vinegar helps dissolve kidney stones and relieves pain. Its alkalising properties may also inhibit the production of new stones.
4. Warm Compress or Heating Pad.
Administering heat to the area of concern can help relieve discomfort related to kidney stones by relaxing the muscles and reducing spasms.
How to Use:
- Apply a warm compress or heating pad to your lower back or abdomen for 15-20 minutes.
- Repeat the technique every few hours as needed.
Why does it work?
Heat therapy stimulates the flow of blood to the problematic area, which can help relieve inflammation and discomfort.
5. Dietary Changes
Certain foods can either help or hinder your efforts to pass kidney stones. Making small adjustments to your diet can make a big difference.
Foods to include:
- Fruits and vegetables: Rich in water and nutrients, they help maintain overall kidney health.
- Calcium-rich foods: Contrary to popular belief, dietary calcium can help prevent stones by binding to oxalates in the digestive tract.
- Magnesium-rich foods: Almonds, avocados, and spinach can help reduce oxalate absorption.
Foods to avoid:
- High-oxalate foods: Spinach, beets, nuts, and chocolate can contribute to stone formation.
- High-sodium foods: Excess salt can increase calcium levels in the urine.
6. Herbal teas.
Certain herbal teas might provide soothing comfort and aid in the breakdown of kidney stones.
Effective choices include:
- Horsetail tea reduces inflammation and improves urine flow.
- Dandelion root tea acts as a diuretic and improves kidney function.
- Nettle leaf tea helps to flush out stones and relieve pain.
How to Use:
- Soak the herbs in boiling water for 10–15 minutes.
- Drink 2-3 cups per day.
Why does it work?
Herbal teas contain ingredients that relax the urinary tract, making stones easier to pass.
7. Pain Management with Over-the-Counter Medications
While not a home remedy in the strictest sense, using over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can be an effective way to manage kidney stone pain while trying other natural remedies.
Recommended options:
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): Reduces inflammation and pain.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Provides pain relief without the anti-inflammatory effects.
Caution:
Always follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare provider if you have underlying medical conditions.
8. Physical Activity
Moderate exercise can encourage kidney stones to move through the urinary tract, reducing pain and speeding up the process.
What to do:
- Engage in light activities like walking, yoga, or stretching.
- Avoid strenuous exercises that might exacerbate pain or discomfort.
Why it works:
Movement can shift the position of kidney stones, making it easier for them to pass.
9. Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranates include antioxidants and chemicals that promote kidney health.
How to use:
- Drink a glass of fresh pomegranate juice daily.
- Alternatively, eat the seeds as a snack.
Why it works:
Pomegranate juice helps reduce acidity in urine, making it less hospitable for stone formation.
10. Coconut Water
Coconut water is a natural diuretic that can aid in flushing out kidney stones.
How to use:
- Drink fresh coconut water 1-2 times daily.
- Ensure the water is unsweetened and free of additives.
Why it works:
Its hydrating and diuretic properties help in flushing out small stones and relieving discomfort.
11. Drink Rajma (kidney bean) water.
Kidney beans include vitamin B, which aids in the breakdown and flushing of stones, as well as overall kidney function. Making kidney broth is a simple way to alleviate kidney stone discomfort.
How to Use:
• Remove kidney beans from container.
• Boil in water for 1 hour.
• Drink the water throughout the day.
Why does it work?
Kidney beans have a low glycaemic index(GI), which is ideal for diabetics. They also include essential minerals, which lower cholesterol and aid in weight loss.
12. Drink common fig and other juices
Drinking anjeer water, also known as common fig water, may help relieve kidney stones.
How to Use:
- Boil figs in water for 5–10 minutes.
- Pour the water into a cup.
You can also eat figs soaked in milk. Drink watermelon juice daily. Eating dry figs on an empty stomach early in the morning. Eating celery regularly.
When to Seek Medical Attention?
While home cures can help with minor kidney stones, there are situations when medical assistance is required. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience:
- Pain is severe and unrelenting.
- Blood in the urine.
- Fever or chills are symptoms of infection.
- Passing pee is difficult.
Preventing Future Kidney Stones
After passing a kidney stone, it is critical to take preventative measures. Here are a few tips:
- Stay hydrated. Aim for 2-3 litres of water per day.
- Keep track of your diet: Avoid foods with high oxalate and salt levels.
- Incorporate citrate-rich meals, such as lemons, oranges, and other citrus fruits.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves overall kidney health.
FAQs
Q: How can I prevent kidney stones?
A: Stay hydrated, eat a well-balanced diet low in sodium and oxalates, limit animal protein, and avoid overconsumption of particular foods like spinach and chocolate.
Q: Can home remedies help treat kidney stones?
A: Yes, home remedies such as increased water intake, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and dietary adjustments can help alleviate symptoms and aid in the passage of kidney stones.
Q: When should I seek medical help for kidney stones?
A: Seek medical treatment if you have severe pain, prolonged vomiting, fever, chills, problems urinating, or discover blood in your urine, as these symptoms may suggest complications.