Kidney Stones
There has been an increase in kidney stones in recent years. Diet and a lack of fluids has a major role in both causing them and the reason for their increase over the years.
Some initial symptoms can be blood in the urine or recurring urinary tract infections. The first pain you may feel is in your back or side just below your ribs. The pain becomes intense when the kidney stone or stones break loose and work their way from the kidney to the bladder through the ureter. The pain then radiates to your lower abdomen, groin and genital area. Passing a kidney stone can be excruciating and an experience you are not likely to forget.
They are formed when your urine becomes too concentrated. This is where lack of fluids comes in. The minerals or other substances in the urine begin to form into crystals. These crystals then can combine to form a stone. If the stones are small, they can pass into your bladder without causing damage.
Finding the underlying cause is very important to stop them from forming again. The best thing you can do to prevent a recurance is to drink plenty of water and by eating the right foods.
Other symptoms include cloudy or foul smelling urine, nausea, vomiting, urge to urinate and fever and chills if there is an infection.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
As mentioned above, a lack of fluids can be the cause. Water is especially important. Because of this factor you are more likely to have kidney stones if you live in a hot and dry climate or work in a hot environment.
Family health history is another cause. If your family has a history of kidney stones, then you are more likely to have them as well. Once you have had one or more, you are also at risk to develop them again.
Men are more likely to have kidney stones as well as people between the ages 20 to 70 years old.
Some diseases or health disorders are also a risk factor, such as tubular acidosis, gout, chronic urinary tract infections or cystinuria.
Medications can be a cause. An example, diuretics may increase risk.
A high protien, low carb diet may be a cause.
Sedentary life style over a prolonged period. Limited activity can cause your bones to release calcium -- a major cause of kidney stones.
Natural Cures and Remedies
Chanca Piedra -- My favorite and what I consider to be one of the best natural remedies is an herb called chanca piedra or, as it is also called, "the stone breaker." The following Web site will give you some information about chanca piedra and what it does.
Royal Break-Stone, Chanca Piedra for Kidney Stones
IP6 or Inositol Hexaphosphate -- IP6 is a relatively new discovery that helps keep stones from forming. It also cleanses the arteries, the heart, brain, liver, gall bladder (stones), and many other tissues. If you are prone to get kidney stones if would be a good idea to take this supplement.
Magnesium Citrate -- Low magnesium intake has been linked to stone formation. Magnesium supplementation may decrease the size of an existing stone and prevent further formations.
Vitamin B-6 -- A deficiency increases urinary oxalate that may lead to stones.
Additional Resources and Information:
Forum
Kidney Stones Alternatives / Cleansing Kidneys Forum
Some articles about kidney stones and kidney health --
Kidney Stones
Nephritis
Helpful Book
No More Kidney Stones: The Experts Tell You All You Need to Know about Prevention and Treatment
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