Kidney stones are solid deposits in the kidneys and exit the body through the urinary tract. With the help of home remedies, knowledge of symptoms, proactive measures, understanding the causes, and awareness of the risk factors can help prevent their occurrence. However, most kidney stones can be treated through fluid therapy, pain management, or other medical interventions, but being well-informed is crucial. This guide will explain the symptoms, causes, and remedies for kidney stones.

Causes
Kidney stones can form in the body when there is a high concentration of minerals, uric acid, oxalate, and calcium. These substances can form crystals that stick together to create one or more stones. Stones can form when urine lacks sufficient fluid or other substances that prevent their development. Sometimes, kidney stones can be as tiny as a grain of sand, which can pass out of the body unnoticed. However, when the stones are large, they can cause pain and block urine flow. The causes of kidney stones can vary, and factors such as meal plans and specific treatments can trigger their formation. Moreover, a person with a family history of kidney stones is at a higher risk of developing them.

Symptoms
Usually, a kidney stone does not trigger symptoms until the stone travels to one of the ureters (tubes that connect the kidney to the bladder) or moves around within the kidney. When the stone enters the ureters, it curtails the urine flow and causes inflammation in the kidney and spasms that can be excruciatingly painful. Consequently, one may also experience the following symptoms:

• Intense, acute discomfort in the side and back, underneath the ribs
• Pain that travels to the groin and lower abdomen
• Fluctuating waves of pain, varying in intensity
• Pain or a sensation of burning while peeing

Beyond this, one may also experience other symptoms such as:

• Brown, red, or pink urine
• Foul-smelling or cloudy urine
• Constant urge to pee
• Urinating more frequently
• Passing small amounts of urine
• Vomiting and nausea
• Chills and fever during an underlying infection

The pain from a kidney stone may shift, potentially relocating to a different area or escalating in severity as the stone progresses through the urinary tract.

Some home remedies that can help
Here is a list of home remedies that can help avoid or give relief from kidney stone pain:

Drink plenty of water
Water is quintessential for a natural kidney stone treatment. It is the most straightforward remedy, as water cleanses the entire system. In addition, water flushes the stones and toxins from the body. One must drink at least eight to ten glasses of water daily to keep kidney stones at bay.

Lemon juice
Lemon juice contains citrate, which prevents the development of kidney stones. Citrates are also present in citrus fruits like melons, oranges, limes, and lemons.

Basil juice
Basil is packed with nutrients. Typically, people drink basil juice for inflammation and digestive concerns as it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In addition, it also helps with kidney function. One can use dried or fresh basil leaves to make tea and drink multiple cups daily. Alternatively, one can juice the basil or include it in the morning smoothie.

Celery juice
Celery is present in several traditional options for kidney stones. One can blend one or more celery stalks with water and drink it as juice. Like other plant extracts, celery may interact with other treatments and cause side effects. Hence, it is crucial to consult the doctor before trying this home remedy.

Pomegranate juice
Pomegranate juice is rich in antioxidants, which help maintain kidney health and prevent stones. Always consume fresh pomegranate juice without sugar. The fruit’s sour and astringent properties help eliminate kidney stones. However, one must note that according to the American Stroke Association, pomegranate juice may adversely affect the efficacy of certain cholesterol-lowering prescriptions. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional before consuming pomegranate juice while taking such prescriptions is recommended.

Dandelion root juice
The root of the dandelion triggers the kidneys to produce more urine, aiding in eliminating waste and boosting digestion. In addition, dandelion has vitamins and minerals that benefit the body, helping prevent kidney stones.

Kidney bean broth
Kidney bean broth is a traditional dish in many parts of the world. Studies suggest that it may also aid in kidney and urinary health. To prepare it, strain the liquid from the cooked beans and consume it several times daily.

Raspberry
This fruit helps prevent and manage kidney stones by lowering the phosphorus and calcium levels in the body. It also aids in expelling stones from the urinary tract and reduces their growth.