- Kidney Stones – Introduction
- Root Causes
- Different Indian Names
- Common Symptoms and First Sign
- Types of Kidney Stones
- Home Remedies
- Preventive Tips
- FAQs.
Kidney stones can be painful and disruptive to your daily life, but understanding the causes and symptoms can help you take the necessary steps to prevent and treat them. In this post, we will discuss the root causes, the different types of stones, common symptoms, and treatments. We will also provide helpful tips to reduce your risk of developing pathri in the future. By understanding the root of the problem, you can make informed decisions to reduce your risk and get back to a healthy lifestyle. Kidney stones are a painful and common medical condition. Fortunately, there are a number of home remedies that can help relieve the discomfort of passing kidney stones. Here are some of the most effective home remedies for pathri.
Kidney Stones – Introduction
Kidney stones, also known as calculi or stone belt, are a fairly common disorder characterized by the formation of stones in the kidneys or urinary tract. Various substances in the urine crystallize to form these stones, typically when the body is dehydrated, leading to more concentrated urine. Kidney stones can occur anywhere in the kidneys or ureters and vary in size from less than 5 mm to over 2.5 cm in diameter. When a stone becomes lodged in the ureter, it can cause agonizing pain known as ureteric colic, resulting from muscle contractions. This pain may radiate to the lower abdomen and groin. Blockage of the urinary tract by stones can lead to serious damage to kidney function. In some cases, large stones may remain in the kidneys without causing symptoms, referred to as silent stones.
Root Causes
Dehydration is a primary cause of kidney stones, but not the only one. Factors like kidney disease, infections, wrong diet, excessive intake of acid-forming foods, and certain medications also contribute. Stones form when certain substances in urine exceed their solubility. They often consist of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and oxalate. Smaller stones are called “gravel,” larger ones “staghorn” calculi. Less common types result from inherited disorders. Kidney stones occur due to metabolic defects, typically when urine becomes highly concentrated from heavy perspiration or insufficient fluid intake. Deficiencies in vitamin A and excessive vitamin B intake can also lead to stone formation.
Different Indian Names
- Scientific Binomial: Nephrolithiasis / Renal Calculi
- Common English: Kidney Stone
- Ayurvedic: Ashmari (अश्मरि)
- Unani: Gurde Ki Pathri (گردے کی پتھری)
- Sanskrit: Vrukka Ashmari (वृक्क अश्मरि)
- Hindi / Urdu: Gurde ki Pathri (गुर्दे की पथरी)
- Bengali: Shwet Patheri (শ্বেত পাথরি) / Kidani Pathara
- Marathi: Mutkhada (मुतखडा)
- Telugu: Mutra Galu (మూత్ర గలు) / Gurrala Raallu (గుర్రల రాళ్ళు)
- Tamil: Siruneer Kal (சிறுநீர் கல்) / Ciruniraka Kal
- Gujarati: Mutrapindani Pathari (મૂત્રપિંડની પથરી)
- Kannada: Mutrapinda Kallu (ಮೂತ್ರಪಿಂಡದ ಕಲ್ಲು)
- Malayalam: Vrukka Kallu (വൃക്ക കല്ല്)
- Oriya: କିଡନୀ ପଥର
- Punjabi / Sindhi: Punjabi / Sindhi: Gurda da Pathar (ਗੁਰਦਾ ਦਾ ਪਥਰ)
- Assamese: কণ পল / বৃক্কৰ পাথৰ
- Kashmiri: Gorukh Pather (گورکھ پٹھر)
- Konkani: Mutraashmari (ಮೂತ್ರಾಶ್ಮರಿ)
- Manipuri: Thumbee Thagee
- Dogri: Gurde da Pathar (गुर्दे दा पथर)
- Bhojpuri: Gurde ka Patthar (गुर्दे का पत्थर)
- Chinese: Shen jieshi
- Spanish: Calculos renales
- Portuguese: Pedra nos rins
- Russian: Pochechnyy kamen
Common Symptoms and First Sign
Kidney stones can cause pain ranging from mild to severe. The pain can be sharp, cramp-like, or dull and can occur in waves as the stone moves through the urinary tract. It may also be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Common symptoms can include:
- Pain in the side and back, below the ribs
- Pain that spreads to the lower abdomen and groin
- Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
- Pain on urination
- Pink, red or brown-colored urine
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Persistent urge to urinate
- Urinating more often than usual
- Fever and chills, if an infection is present
- Pain that worsens when you walk, bend or strain
Types of Kidney Stones
Depend on the cause of there are 3 main types of kidney stones.
- Calcium stones: Up to 80 percent of stones are mainly of calcium. They are generally soft and painless, though they may become painful when they start leaving the pelvis of the kidney and enter the ureter. An individual with an under active thyroid or parathyroid gland can develop calcium stones.
- Phosphate stones: These stones are rough and irritate the bladder and cause pain because of their rough quality. They are primarily caused by increased phosphates in the system, due to excess eating of nightshade plants (potatoes, eggplant, tomatoes).
- Oxalate stones: They are sharp, irritate, burn, and create bleeding, and they may create a great deal of pain from loin to groin. A diet high in oxalic acid promotes formation of oxalate stones. Thus individuals who eat spinach, potato, tomato, and rhubarb, which are rich in oxalic acid, have a tendency to form stones. These food items should be strictly avoided by anyone concerned about preventing the formation of kidney stones.
- Struvite stones: These are usually caused by an infection in the urinary tract, such as a bladder infection.
- Uric acid stones: These form when there is too much acid in the urine.
- Cystine stones: These are caused by an inherited disorder that causes the kidneys to excrete too much of certain amino acids.
- Brushite stones: These are very rare and usually form due to high levels of calcium phosphate in the urine.
Home Remedies
Pathri can be treated successfully by proper dietary regulations. These regulations will also prevent a recurrence of the symptoms. Only a few cases require surgery. The patient should avoid foods which irritate the kidneys, to control acidity or alkalinity of the urine and to ensure adequate intake of fluids to prevent the urine from becoming concentrated.
1. Water
Adequate water intake helps dilute urine, reducing the concentration of minerals that form kidney stones. Acting as a natural solvent, water flushes out minerals from the kidneys, preventing stone formation. Hydration promotes frequent urination, preventing mineral accumulation. For those with kidney stones, increased water intake aids stone passage, reducing the risk of obstruction. Aim for 2 to 2.5 liters (8 to 10 cups) of urine per day.
2. Corn Silk
Corn silk, the fine threads found on corn ears, thought to act as a diuretic, helping to increase urine production and promoting the flushing out of kidney stones and other toxins from the urinary tract. Collect fresh corn silk from ears of corn. Alternatively, dried corn silk can be purchased from herbal stores. Boil water in a pot. Add the fresh or dried corn silk to the boiling water. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the tea to steep for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the corn silk. Drink 1 to 2 cups of corn silk tea per day, preferably between meals.
3. Stinging Nettle Tea
Stinging nettle tea is believed to offer several benefits for kidney stones due to its diuretic properties, which help increase urine production and promote the flushing out of toxins, including substances that contribute to stone formation. Additionally, stinging nettle contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with kidney stones. Boil water in a pot. Place 1 tablespoon dried stinging nettle leaves in a teapot or heatproof container. Pour the boiling water over the nettle leaves. Cover and steep for about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on desired strength. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the leaves. Drink 1 to 2 cups of stinging nettle tea per day, preferably between meals.
4. Cranberry
Cranberries and cranberry juice are often touted for their potential benefits in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can be a risk factor for certain types of kidney stones. Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which may help prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract, thus reducing the risk of UTIs. Since some kidney stones are related to recurrent UTIs, cranberries may indirectly help reduce the risk of developing these types of stones. Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice may help promote urinary tract health and reduce the risk of UTIs, which can contribute to certain types of kidney stones. Choose 100% pure cranberry juice without added sugars or sweeteners for the most benefits.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is believed by some to be beneficial for kidney stones due to its potential ability to alkalize the urine and dissolve certain types of kidney stones, particularly those composed of calcium oxalate crystals. Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with 6 to 8 ounces of water. Add honey or a natural sweetener if desired to improve taste. Drink the diluted ACV solution once or twice a day, preferably before meals. OR Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with warm water. Add a small amount of honey or a natural sweetener, if desired. Drink the ACV tonic once or twice a day.
6. Celery
A good detoxification remedy, celery stem, leaf, and seed stimulate the kidneys to clear waste products, especially helping to cleanse salts. The seed contains a volatile oil which stimulates the clearance of waste products by the kidneys. Its regular use prevents future tone formation. Incorporate fresh celery stalks into your daily diet by adding them to salads, sandwiches, soups, or stir-fries. Snack on raw celery sticks with hummus or your favorite dip. Extract fresh celery juice using a juicer or blender. Drink celery juice on its own or mix it with other vegetable juices for added flavor. Celery seed extract supplements are available in various forms, such as capsules or tablets. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the product label or as recommended by a healthcare professional. OR Steep fresh or dried celery leaves in hot water to make celery tea. Allow the tea to cool slightly before drinking.
7. Parsley
Parsley is a natural diuretic, meaning it can increase urine production. This may help flush out toxins, including substances that contribute to kidney stone formation, from the urinary tract. Parsley contains antioxidants such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamin C, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the kidneys and urinary tract. Vitamin C is thought to inhibit the formation of certain types of kidney stones, particularly those composed of calcium oxalate crystals. Incorporate fresh parsley into your daily diet by adding it to salads, soups, stews, sauces, or sandwiches. Chop fresh parsley leaves and sprinkle them over cooked dishes for added flavor and nutrition. To make parsley tea, steep fresh or dried parsley leaves in hot water. Allow the tea to cool slightly before drinking. You can add honey or lemon juice to improve the taste, if desired.
8. Holy Basil
Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is pouplar as a natural diuretic, meaning it can increase urine production. This diuretic effect may help flush out toxins, including substances that contribute to kidney stone formation, from the urinary tract. Chew fresh holy basil leaves on an empty stomach in the morning. Incorporate fresh holy basil leaves into your diet by adding them to salads, soups, or smoothies. To make tea, steep fresh or dried holy basil leaves in hot water to make holy basil tea. Allow the tea to cool slightly before drinking. You can add honey or lemon juice to improve the taste, if desired. Holy basil due to its antimicrobial properties, may help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTIs can contribute to certain types of kidney stones, so preventing or treating UTIs may indirectly help prevent kidney stone formation.
9. Olive Oil
Olive oil is beneficial for kidney stones due to its potential ability to lubricate the urinary tract and facilitate the passage of stones. The combination of olive oil with lemon juice, known as an olive oil and lemon juice cleanse, is a popular home remedy for kidney stones. The acidic nature of lemon juice when combine with the lubricating properties of olive oil may help break down and flush out kidney stones. Mix equal parts of olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a glass. Drink the mixture followed by a large glass of water. Repeat the process every few hours, preferably on an empty stomach. Some people also consume a tablespoon of pure olive oil on an empty stomach in the morning as a preventive measure against kidney stones.
10. Punarnava, Mutral and Coriander
If you have begun to pass a kidney stone and are having a great deal of pain, then try herbal formula made with punarnava, mutral and coriander. Take all the herbs in equal proportion and mix. Take 1 teaspoon of this mixture twice a day, with a can of beer. Beer, which is essentially fermented barley soup, is a diuretic. It accelerates the passing of the kidney stone and, in combination with the herbs, effects a decrystallization of the kidney. You will pass the stone more easily, without much pain.
11. Kidney Beans
Kidney beans, also known as French beans or common beans, provide a highly effective remedy for kidney problems, including kidney stones. To prepare, remove the beans from the pods, slice the pods, and add approximately 60 mg to four liters of hot water. Boil the mixture slowly for four hours. Strain the liquid through fine muslin and allow it to cool for about eight hours. Then, pour the fluid through another piece of muslin without stirring. Administer a glassful of this decoction to the patient every two hours throughout the day for one day, and subsequently, it can be taken several times a week. Note that the decoction loses its efficacy if it is more than 24 hours old. While the pods can be stored for longer periods, once boiled, their therapeutic properties diminish after one day.
12. Lemon
Increase intake of citrus fruits and juices, such as lemons and oranges, contain citric acid, which can help break down pathri. Fresh lemon juice, drunk in a little hot water every morning, will help to flush the kidneys and break down pathri. Pomegranate juice is a great source of antioxidants and can help break down pathri.
13. Hot and Cold Compress
Another way to ease the pain of passing a kidney stone is to alternate hot and cold applications to the kidney area. Use a hot water bottle or hot compress, and an ice bag or a bag of frozen vegetables. Alternate them every 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the pain subsides.
14. Coriander Leaves and Powder
Try drinking a cup of watermelon juice with 1/4 teaspoon coriander power. Watermelon is a diuretic (as is coriander), so this mixture will give the kidneys a good flushing and help to remove small stones and crystals. Use this 2 to 3 times a day. OR Prepare coriander water or coriander tea. Take a handful of fresh coriander leaves. Boil about 1 to 2 cups of water in a pot. Add the chopped coriander leaves to the boiling water. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 to 10 minutes. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool down. Strain the coriander water to remove the leaves. Drink the coriander water once or twice a day.
Preventive Tips
- Diabetics should not take L-cysteine supplements unless supervised by a physician. L- cysteine may also cause kidney stones, but a high vitamin C intake should prevent this from occurring.
- Drink plenty of water 3 liter a day to flush the kidneys.
- Avoid long-term use of vitamin C, calcium, or vitamin D supplements.
- Extra magnesium and vitamin B 6 will help.
- Try to avoid the foods considered irritants to the kidneys such as alcoholic beverages, condiments, pickles, certain vegetables like cucumbers, radishes, tomatoes, spinach, rhubarb, water-cress and those with strong aroma such as asparagus, onions, beans, cabbage and cauliflower, meat, gravies and carbonated waters.
FAQs.
Q. What size is big for a kidney stone?
Kidney stones can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Stones larger than 5 millimeters (about 0.2 inches) are considered large.
Q. Can drinking milk cause kidney stones?
No, drinking milk does not cause kidney stones. In fact, research has shown that drinking milk may actually reduce the risk of pathri formation.
Q. Is 4.5mm kidney stone big?
No, a 4.5mm kidney stone is considered small. Kidney stones are generally classified as small if they are less than 5mm in size.
Q. How fast do kidney stones grow?
It can grow very quickly, in as little as two weeks. However, some stones can take months or even years to form.
Q. Is rice dangerous for a kidney stone patient?
No, rice is not dangerous for a kidney stone patient. However, it is important to follow a healthy and balanced diet with reduced sodium and animal proteins to reduce the risk of developing new kidney stones and to help manage existing stones.
Q. What are Ayurvedic natural remedies to break up a kidney stone?
- Varunadi Vati: This ayurvedic remedy is a natural diuretic that helps to flush out toxins from the kidneys. It is also known to reduce inflammation and reduce pain due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Punarnava Mandur: This is a combination of various herbs that are known to be beneficial for kidney health. It helps to flush out toxins from the kidneys and also helps to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Pashanbhed: Pashanbhed is an ayurvedic herb that helps to reduce kidney stone size and also helps to reduce pain.
- Gokshuradi Guggul: This is an ayurvedic remedy that helps to flush out toxins from the kidneys and also helps to reduce pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Punarnava: Punarnava is an ayurvedic herb that helps to reduce inflammation and pain due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Q. Is beer useful for removing kidney stones?
No, beer is not useful for removing kidney stones. Drinking beer may actually increase your risk for developing kidney stones due to its high levels of oxalate, which is a compound found in some beers that can increase the risk of developing kidney stones. The best way to prevent and treat kidney stones is to drink plenty of fluids, reduce your salt intake, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid excess alcohol consumption.
Q. Will a 7mm kidney stone pass on its own?
It is possible for a 7mm kidney stone to pass on its own, depending on its composition and location. However, larger stones are more difficult to pass and may require medical intervention. If you are experiencing symptoms of a kidney stone, it is best to contact your doctor for further evaluation.
Q. Which fruits are good for kidney stone?
Some fruits that are beneficial for kidney stones include apples, grapes, oranges, cranberries, strawberries, blueberries, and pears. Watermelon and cantaloupe can also be helpful, as they contain high amounts of water. Additionally, consuming lemon juice or lemonade can help to break down and flush out kidney stones.
Q. Which plant is good for kidney stones?
The following plants are believed to be beneficial in treating kidney stones:
- Patharchatta (Kalanchoe pinnata)
- Dandelion
- Horsetail
- Nettle
- Parsley
- Marshmallow Root
- Goldenrod
- Gravel Root
- Hydrangea Root
- Juniper Berries
- Alfalfa
Q. Which Kottakkal medicine is used for kidney stones?
Kottakkal Ayurveda has several medicines for kidney stones. Some of the medicines used for kidney stones include Varanadi Kashayam, Kankayan Vati, Chandraprabha Vati, Punarnavadi Kashayam, Pashanbhedadi Kashayam, and Shilajit. These medicines should be taken as per the advice of an Ayurvedic doctor.
Q. Are kidney stones hereditary?
There is a genetic component to kidney stones, but it is not known if it is inherited. There are certain genetic disorders that can increase the risk of kidney stones, such as cystinuria and primary hyperoxaluria. It is also thought that certain lifestyle factors, such as diet, can play a role in the development of kidney stones.
Q. Is there anything I should or shouldn’t eat while I have kidney stones?
It is important to drink plenty of fluids when you have kidney stones. You should also limit your intake of animal protein, sodium, and oxalate-rich foods, as these can contribute to the development of kidney stones. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is also recommended. Some specific foods to avoid include: processed and canned foods, nuts, chocolate, tea, beer, spinach, rhubarb, beets, peanuts, and wheat bran.
Q. Which Patanjali medicine for kidney stone?
Patanjali’s Divya Vrikkdoshhar Kwath and Divya Ashamarihar Kwath are herbal remedies for kidney stones and over all kidney health. It is an Ayurvedic medicine that helps dissolve stones and eliminate them from the body. Ashmarihar kwath is made from herbs such as pashanbhed, varun, punarnava, gokshur. Vrikkdoshhar kwath is made from herbs such as pashanbhed, gokhru, punarnvamul, kulthi, varunachal and other herbs, the consumption of which strengthens emission system.
Q. Can kidney stone cause weight loss?
Yes, kidney stones can cause weight loss. Kidney stones can cause pain, blocking the urinary tract, resulting in difficulty urinating and a decreased appetite. When the body is unable to process food properly, weight loss may occur. Additionally, kidney stones can cause nausea and vomiting, which can lead to a decrease in food intake.
Q. Does a 17 mm kidney stone require surgery?
In most cases, a 17 mm kidney stone does not require surgery. Most kidney stones can be treated with medications and other noninvasive procedures. However, in some cases a 17 mm kidney stone may be too large to pass on its own and may require surgery to remove. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best course of action based on the size and location of the stone.
Q. What size of kidney stone is harmful?
Kidney stones can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Stones can form in any part of the kidney, but are most commonly found in the center of the kidney or near the junction of the ureter and kidney. Most kidney stones are small enough to pass out of the body without causing any harm. Stones larger than 5 millimeters (mm) can cause blockage in the urinary tract, which may require treatment. Stones larger than 7 mm can be more difficult to pass and may require more invasive treatments.
Q. How to pass a kidney stone in 24 hours?
- Drink plenty of fluids: It is essential to drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the kidney stones. Water is the best option as it helps maintain an adequate urine output. If you can, try to drink up to 2-3 liters (about 68-101 ounces) of water per day.
- Take pain medications: Pain medications can help alleviate the pain associated with kidney stones. Over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can be used to reduce the pain.
- Try to move around: Getting up and moving around can help speed the passage of the kidney stone. Movement of the body helps the kidneys to contract and helps pass the stone more quickly.
- Take potassium citrate: Potassium citrate is a type of medication that can help dissolve kidney stones. It works by breaking down the calcium crystals that form the stones, which then makes them easier to pass.
- Try dandelion root: Dandelion root is a natural diuretic that can help increase urine production. This can help pass kidney stones faster as it increases the amount of urine produced and helps to flush them out.
- Consider lithotripsy: If the kidney stone is very large, your doctor may recommend a procedure called lithotripsy. This involves using sound waves or shock waves to break up the stone so that it can pass through the ureter more easily.