To pass kidney stones effectively, the following steps and treatments are recommended:

How to Pass Kidney Stones Naturally

• Drink plenty of water: Aim for at least 2 to 3 quarts (1.8 to 3.6 liters) of water daily to dilute urine and help flush out the stones

• Use pain relief: Over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease the discomfort while the stone passes

• Consider alpha blockers: Medications like alpha blockers relax the ureter muscles, helping stones pass more easily and reducing pain from spasms

• Dietary adjustments:
  • Reduce sodium intake to lower calcium in urine.
  • Eat calcium-rich foods (dairy, leafy greens) to bind oxalate in the gut and prevent stone growth.
  • Limit high-oxalate foods (spinach, nuts, chocolate) that contribute to stone formation.
  • Reduce animal protein intake to lower uric acid levels

• Increase citrus intake: Drinking lemon or orange juice may help prevent stones and assist passage due to citric acid content

• Stay active: Gentle movement can promote blood flow and reduce inflammation, potentially aiding stone passage

When Medical Intervention Is Needed

• If stones are large ( >6 mm), cause blockage, or severe symptoms occur: Procedures may be necessary

• Non-surgical treatments:
  • Lithotripsy uses shock waves to break stones into smaller pieces that can pass naturally

* Medications such as calcium channel blockers or alpha blockers to relax ureter muscles

• Surgical options:
  • Ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy breaks stones using a laser via a thin scope inserted through the urinary tract

* Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) removes large stones through a small incision in the back

* Open surgery is rare and reserved for very large or complicated stones

Important Notes

• Seek immediate medical care if you have fever, severe nausea, vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, or signs of infection, as these may indicate complications

• Passing kidney stones can be painful, but with proper hydration, pain management, and medical guidance, most stones pass without surgery

In summary, passing kidney stones involves staying well-hydrated, managing pain, possibly using medications to relax the ureter, and making dietary changes. Larger or problematic stones may require medical procedures such as lithotripsy or surgery