What is the fastest way to dissolve a kidney stone?

Dr.Karandeep Guleria, 3 mins read

Kidney stones are now becoming a common health problem all over the world. Busy lifestyles, poor hydration, and unhealthy diets are solely repsonsible people facing this painful condition. In India, the overall prevalence of kidney stones is around 12%, similar to the global average, with a higher rate of approximately 15% in northern states.

Many people do not drink enough water during the day, and instead they choose soft drinks or caffeinated beverages. Over a period of time, this can increase the risk of stones forming in the kidneys. As kidney stone pain can be very severe, people generally search for the fastest way to get relief and dissolve these stones naturally or with medical help.

Overview

Kidney stones are small, hard deposits made of minerals and salts. They form inside the kidneys and can travel through the urinary tract. Common causes include dehydration, high salt intake, obesity, or certain medical conditions. Some stones are very small and may pass through urine without any treatment, while larger ones can cause unbearable pain and may need medical intervention.

The first and most effective way to dissolve kidney stones is drinking plenty of water as it helps flush out toxins and keeps the urine diluted, which prevents stones from getting bigger. Doctors usually recommend drinking at least 2 to 3 L of water daily. Lemon water is also considered helpful, as citric acid in lemon may break down calcium-based stones.

Home Remedies for Dissolving Kidney Stones:-

Following are some natural remedies that can help in breaking down stones:

• Lemon juice and olive oil: It is a traditional remedy where lemon juice is mixed with a spoon of olive oil. The citric acid helps soften stones while the oil helps in smoother passage.
• Apple cider vinegar: A glass of water with 1 to 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar can help in dissolving stones because of its acidic nature.
• Coconut water: It can flush out small stones and reduce burning sensation during urination.

Medical Treatments

When natural remedies do not work, medical treatments are prescribed by the doctors to dissolve or remove the stones. Some of the common options are:

• Medication: Medicines containing potassium citrate can make urine less acidic and help dissolve uric acid stones.
• Shock Wave Therapy (Lithotripsy): This is a non-surgical treatment where shock waves are used to break stones into small pieces that can pass easily.
• Ureteroscopy: This procedure is used to treat large stones using special instruments.

Along with water and medicines, changing the diet is important. We should avoid too much salt, red meat, and processed foods to stop stones from growing. We should eat more fresh fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods to support kidney health.

When to See a Doctor

One should consult a doctor if the pain is too severe, if there is blood in urine, if you have fever, or if the stone does not pass naturally, one should immediately consult a doctor. Waiting too long can damage the kidneys.

Conclusion

The fastest way to dissolve a kidney stone depends on its size and type of kidney stone. Drinking plenty of water, trying natural remedies, and making dietary changes can help with smaller stones. However, for larger stones, medical treatments like medicines or shock wave therapy may be the quickest solution. The best advice to prevent stones is by staying hydrated and following a healthy lifestyle.

If you have any query related to kidney stones, you can visit Aakash Healthcare and consult our urology experts for best advice and treatment plans.