How Much Water Should I Drink To Pass A Kidney Stone?

Affecting millions worldwide, kidney stones can be excruciatingly painful. If you’ve ever experienced intense pain caused by a kidney stone, you know how important it is to find relief as quickly as possible. One of the most effective ways is by staying properly hydrated. This article will explore the optimal amount of water you should drink to successfully pass a kidney stone, the benefits of staying hydrated, and when to seek medical attention.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Before diving into the details of hydration, it’s essential to understand what kidney stones are and how they form. Kidney stones^[2] are hard, crystalline deposits that form in the kidneys. They can vary in size and shape, ranging from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. Kidney stones are known for blocking urine flow, leading to impaired renal function and potential complications. The most common type of kidney stones form from calcium oxalate, which can also be composed of other substances like struvite or uric acid stones.

Calcium stones^[3] are one of the most common types of kidney stones. They are formed when calcium accumulates in the urine and crystallizes in the kidneys. While small stones may not cause any symptoms, larger stones can cause severe pain and may require medical intervention. Treatment typically involves increasing fluid intake and dietary changes to reduce the risk of forming stones.

To get rid of a kidney stone, medical intervention is often necessary. Treatment options vary depending on the size and location of the stone. This can include medications to help a stone pass, shock wave therapy^[4] to break up the stone, or surgical management.

In addition to medical treatment, lifestyle changes can help in kidney stone prevention. A few ways to do this effectively include:

• Drinking plenty of water.
• Avoiding foods high in oxalate such as peanuts, rhubarb, spinach, beets, swiss chard, chocolate, and sweet potatoes.
• Reducing salt intake.

While medical treatments are available, natural remedies can also be effective in getting rid of kidney stones. One such remedy is apple cider vinegar, known to help dissolve kidney stones, pass naturally, and prevent their formation. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which can help break down the calcium stones deposits that form kidney stones. It also has citric acid, which helps prevent the formation of new stones. 

Apple cider vinegar for kidney stones is one of many remedies for at-home treatment to pass naturally. Some of the best apple cider vinegar gummies include the SkinnyFit brand because the taste is more pleasant. One SkinnyFit review states that the gummies are easy to take and work well.

How Does Staying Hydrated Help With Kidney Stones?

Staying properly hydrated is crucial for preventing kidney stone formation and facilitating their passage. When you drink enough water, it helps dilute the substances in your urine that can lead to stone formation. Additionally, staying hydrated promotes regular urination, which helps flush out any tiny crystals or stones that may be present in your kidneys or urinary tract. Benefits of staying hydrated include:

• Flushing out any small stones that may be present in the kidneys or urinary tract, reducing the risk of them growing larger.
• Preventing urinary tract infections, which can lead to the formation of struvite stones.
• Easing the passage of a kidney stone through the urinary tract, reducing discomfort and pain.
• Preventing^[5] the formation of new larger stones in individuals with a history of kidney stones.

How Much Water Should I Drink To Pass A Kidney Stone?

The amount of water you should drink to pass a kidney stone depends on various factors, including your overall health, activity level, and climate. However, a general guideline is to aim for at least six to eight, 8-ounce glasses of water daily. This fluid intake includes all fluids consumed, not just plain water. It’s important to spread your water intake throughout the day rather than consume a large amount simultaneously.

Additionally, if you’ve had a history of kidney stones or are at a higher risk, your healthcare provider may recommend increasing your water intake even further. They may also suggest specific dietary modifications to prevent kidney stones, such as reducing your intake of oxalate-rich foods and controlling your calcium intake.

How Can Water Help To Prevent Kidney Stones

Drinking water is a simple yet effective way to prevent kidney from forming stones. When you drink enough water, your urine becomes more diluted, which makes it less likely for minerals and salts to form crystals and harden into stones.

In addition, water helps to flush out any existing stones or crystals in the kidneys before they have a chance to grow and cause pain. By staying hydrated^[6], you can reduce your risk of developing kidney stones and maintain optimal kidney health.

How To Maintain Hydration If You Don’t Like Water

Drinking plain water can be boring for some people. Luckily, there are several ways to make hydrating more enjoyable while keeping kidney stones at bay. One option is to infuse your water^[7] with fruits like lemon, lime, orange peels, or berries. Another option is to drink other liquids such as herbal teas or coconut water.

Eating water-rich foods such as watermelon, cucumber, or celery can also help you stay hydrated. Remember to limit your intake of sugary drinks and caffeinated beverages, as they can increase the risk of developing kidney stones. Additionally, drinking lemonade or limeade can also help prevent kidney stones, as the citric acid in these drinks can help break down calcium-based stones.

When To See A Doctor

While staying hydrated is generally effective in passing kidney stones, there are instances when medical attention is necessary. If you experience severe pain accompanied by fever, chills, or blood in your urine, seek immediate medical attention.

These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition or complications from the kidney stone, and a doctor will be able to provide appropriate treatment. Please consult your primary healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Severe pain in your side, back, or lower abdomen that doesn’t go away.
• Cloudy urine.
• Difficulty urinating or blood in your urine.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Fever or chills.

It’s also important to consult your healthcare provider if you have kidney damage, a history of kidney stones, or are unsure if you drink enough fluids for your specific situation. They can evaluate your needs and provide personalized recommendations to help you pass the kidney stone safely and prevent future occurrences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, staying hydrated is essential for successfully passing a kidney stone. Drinking enough water helps dilute substances in your urine and promotes regular urination, helping kidney stones pass. Aim for at least 2 liters of water daily, spread out throughout the day, and adjust your intake based on your healthcare provider’s recommendations.

Remember to consult a doctor if you experience severe pain or other concerning symptoms. Staying hydrated and following medical advice can increase your chances of passing a kidney stone successfully and preventing future episodes.

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