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Kidney
Stones
These are deposits that form in the kidney or bladder when substances
which are normally dissolved in the urine turn into solids.
What to look for
sharp pain.
nausea and vomiting.
profuse sweating.
blood in urine.
If there is an infection
present as well…
Kidney stones are created
when certain substances in urine (including calcium
and uric acid) crystallise clump together. Small stones, rather like gravel, are able to
pass out of the body in the urine and often go completely unnoticed with no symptoms. But
larger stones irritate and stretch the ureter as they move toward the bladder, causing
agonising pain and blocking the flow of urine. Sometimes a stone can be very large, in
which case it remains lodged in the kidney, creating a more serious condition.
If you've had a kidney
stone once, you are likely to get one again. For this reason it is vital that you attempt
to prevent it through various means.
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Causes
Acquiring kidney stones can
be hereditary, it can also occur in people who are also suffering from gout, urinary tract
infections (cystitis) and certain bowel diseases. Not
drinking enough water can also cause it.
If you use antacids
consistently you may be prone to kidney stones. Dietary deficiencies in vitamin B6 and magnesium,
and excessive amounts of vitamin D also may be
factors in the formation of stones.
Doctors will normally
perform a urine/blood test on you to confirm the presence of a stone and to determine the
possible cause.
Traditional Treatment
Always seek the advice of
your doctor if you have the above symptoms and he or she will advise you on the best
course of action. In most cases, however, bed rest and a mild medication or pain killer
will help. But your doctor will need to perform a test to confirm the composition of the
stone and this will indicate the best type of treatment.
If complications develop,
such as an infection or total blockage the stone must be surgically removed.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
These remedies can help in
relieving the pain of kidney stones.
Chinese Herbs - Practitioners
of Chinese medicine sometimes prescribe star fruit (Averrhoa carambola) to help relieve
pain and promote urination. Practitioners
of Chinese medicine sometimes prescribe star fruit (Averrhoa carambola) to help relieve
pain and promote urination.
Dietary Considerations
Take daily
supplements of vitamin B6, vitamin A and C,
kelp, lecithin, silica and magnesium
Avoid anchovies,
sardines, organ meats, chocolates, celery, grapes, green capsicum, beans, tea,
strawberries, brewer's yeast.
Eat a low-protein diet.
Avoid antacids.
Reduce salt
Avoid vitamin D supplements
Drink plenty of filtered
water every day.
Avoid foods containing
calcium oxalate, as too much of this can cause the stones to worsen (chocolate, celery,
grapes, beans, strawberries, spinach, asparagus, black tea). Ask your doctor about limited
your calcium intake at this time.
When to seek
further professional advice
you think you have kidney
stones;
you are experiencing any
pain or difficulty with urination
you notice blood in your
urine
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