The Natural Treatment of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are small masses – rather like 'stones' that can develop in one or both of the kidneys and can cause a great deal of pain. Kidney stones are formed when the waste products which usually dissolve in the urine fluids, instead, collect around the side of the kidneys and over a period of time form a small mass. Many of us will have small kidney stones yet be unaware as it only becomes evident when the stones become larger and get obstructed between the kidneys and the bladder.nnSymptoms of kidney stones can be very painful. You may experience severe pain or aching in the back on one or both sides, bloody or cloudy urine, vomiting or the feeling of nauseousness, a frequent urge to urinate, or a burning sensation during urination, and fever and chills. Maintaining a fever usually indicates the stone has caused a blockage, and your kidneys are unable to filter waste and fluids. You may also experience fatigue, loss of appetite, diarrhoea or constipation.nnThe main function of the kidneys is to remove waste products from the blood and filter these out via the urethra along with excess fluids. These waste products are then disposed from the body when we urinate and the clean blood is transferred back into the body. If a kidney stone blocks part of the urinary system such as the urethra (which is a common occurrence with the condition), you may experience severe pain in your abdomen or groin. A blockage in the urinary system can lead to infection, kidney damage or sometimes, kidney failure.nnKidney stones can form in a range of shapes, sizes and colours. Some stones may resemble small grains of sand for example whereas some may grow to the size of a golf ball. In order for kidney stones to be diagnosed, a GP will ask you about your symptoms and will examine you. To establish the size and location of the stone, the most common methods of diagnosis will be via a blood test, a urine test, an X-Ray (to show stones with traces of calcium), or an ultrasound. Other methods include an intravenous urogram (IVU) whereby an injection of a special dye will reveal the entire stones within the urinary tract that would not usually be detected.nnThe most immediate and common way to treat kidney stones and kidney pain if there is an infection, blockage or risk of kidney damage is with a course of antibiotics. If there is no infection, you will likely be advised to drink two and a half to three litres per day of water and remain active to move smaller stones smaller out of your body. You may also be prescribed paracetamol or codeine to ease and reduce any pain. It is vital that you seek medical help as if the stones remain untreated, this can lead to kidney infections or eventually kidney damage.nnFortunately with the aid of natural remedies, kidney stones can be effectively treated and prevented. It is also advantageous to review your lifestyle and make changes accordingly. Ensure that you drink plenty of water, exercise regularly and perhaps reassess your diet and look at your level of nutrition. Eating a highly based calcium diet can contribute to the development of kidney stones as can dehydration. There are a number of natural remedies which have maintained proven success for the prevention and treatment of kidney stones and avoid some of the more unpleasant surgical methods such as shockwave therapy for the more serious cases. With the standard methods, kidney stones can often reoccur whereas natural treatments can ultimately prevent the condition returning long term.nnMegavista-Health.com is an independent website giving cutting-edge information on positive, holistic health and nutrition. For further information on how to naturally cure and prevent kidney stones please go to Megavista-health.