Guide To Understanding Kidney Stones

When To See A Doctor

It is true that most cases of kidney stones are ultimately harmless, apart from the excruciating pain they cause. However, those who believe they may have a kidney stone should seek medical attention immediately. Only a medical professional can determine whether or not one's symptoms are caused by a kidney stone and not by some other condition. A doctor may use an ultrasound, CT scan, and other measures to confirm if it is a kidney stone. Those who experience abdominal, pelvic, back, or groin pain that is severe and impossible to relieve, or who experience this pain in addition to the other kidney stone symptoms previously mentioned, should speak to a medical professional immediately.

A Preventative Approach

There are simple things that can be done to reduce the risk of kidney stones. Those who have a medical condition that increases the risk of kidney stones should do everything they can to treat theircondition. Supplementing additional magnesium into the diet will help to reduce the risk of kidney stones, as well as limiting sodium and phosphoric acid intake. Drinking at least eight cups of water a day is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of kidney stones by up to forty percent. Those who have a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones should reduce their intake of wheat germ, peanuts, spinach, beets, and rhubarb as these are all sources of this compound.