What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones, and How Can I Prevent Them Naturally?

Question

For the past few days, I’ve been experiencing sharp pain in my lower back, and at times, it spreads to my lower abdomen. It comes and goes in waves, and I sometimes feel nauseous when the pain gets really bad. I initially thought it was just a muscle strain, but a friend suggested it might be kidney stones. Now I’m wondering—what are the early kidney stone symptoms, and how do I know if I have one?

From what I read, kidney stones form when minerals and salts build up in the kidneys and harden into small, stone-like formations. But do all kidney stones cause pain, or can they be silent? I’ve also been urinating more frequently, and at times, I feel a burning sensation. Could this be related to kidney stones, or is it a different issue?

I want to avoid medical procedures if possible, so I started looking into natural ways to manage and prevent kidney stones. Ayurveda suggests that certain herbs and dietary changes can help break down kidney stones and flush them out naturally. Are there specific herbs like Punarnava, Gokshura, or Varun that actually work?

Also, I’ve heard that drinking more water helps, but are there any specific drinks or home remedies that can help dissolve kidney stones? Should I be avoiding certain foods like oxalate-rich foods, dairy, or high-protein meals?

For those who have had kidney stones before, what were your first symptoms? Were you able to pass them naturally, or did you need medical intervention? I’d love to hear what worked for others in managing the pain and preventing more stones from forming.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Kidney stones often present with sharp, intense pain, especially in the lower back or abdomen, and can also cause nausea, frequent urination, and a burning sensation while urinating. The pain typically occurs when a stone moves through the urinary tract, and while some stones can be small enough to pass without causing pain, others can be very painful, especially if they block urine flow. If you're experiencing these symptoms, it's important to seek medical advice to confirm whether kidney stones are the cause. Ayurvedic treatments like Punarnava, Gokshura, and Varun are thought to support kidney function and may help with dissolving stones or preventing their formation by promoting urine flow and reducing inflammation. Drinking plenty of water is key to preventing and passing stones, as it helps flush out minerals and salts that can form stones. You may also want to avoid oxalate-rich foods (like spinach, nuts, and chocolate) and high-protein meals, as these can contribute to stone formation. However, if you're unable to pass the stones naturally or if the pain becomes unbearable, medical intervention, such as shock wave therapy or surgery, may be necessary. Many people find relief by increasing fluid intake and following dietary changes, but it's important to get proper medical guidance to avoid complications.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Sharp pain in the lower back spreading to the abdomen and waves of nausea—sounds like it could be kidney stones. They often present exactly like that, along with symptoms like frequent urination and that burning sensation. Not everyone with kidney stones feels pain, though; some might just notice blood in their urine, others just discomfort, while some might not even know they have stones unless they move.

Kidney stones form for various reasons, one being when urine becomes too concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. Pain typically happens when they move into the ureter, causing blockage. But if you're urinating more and it's burning, this could still be related. In Ayurveda, this would often be seen as an imbalance in the properties of Pitta, leading to increased "heat" in the body. You should probably get this checked out just to be sure. It’s always good to rule out infections.

If you’re lookin’ to avoid medical procedures and want to try using Ayurveda—a wealth of wisdom there. Punarnava, Gokshura, and Varun are all indeed used traditionally. Punarnava can promote balance and support kidney health. Gokshura can help with urinary tract issues, and Varun improves the urinary system's balance. Ideally, consume these herbs in powder or decoction form, but talk with a practitioner about dosage that suits you.

Increasing your fluid intake, especially warm water, helps flush out the stones naturally. Lemon juice with warm water may aid, as the citric acid can be beneficial, reducing the crystallization in kidneys. Consuming barley water can also soothe and aid in detoxifying the urinary tract. But excess of any remedy can be problematic, so moderation's key.

Foods? Yeah—avoid oxalate-rich ones like spinach, nuts, and chocolates. Too much protein, especially from animal sources, can increase calcium in urine. Also, reduce salt because it upsets calcium balance. Listen to your body—it tells you, gently.

Many people pass stones naturally with enough hydration and patience. But if symptoms worsen or if there’s fever or continuous nausea, you ahould go see a doctor. It’s all about balancing your lifestyle with nature; a Pitta-pacifying diet could be helpful too.

Each person's journey with kidney stones is unique, but understanding your body's signals can guide you through it.

What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones, and How Can I Prevent Them Naturally? - #15649

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