Kidney stones have become quite a common medical condition, and millions of people are suffering from them across the globe. Several myths are linked with kidney stones that potentially harm the patient in the long run. 

We are about to discuss the 9 common myths associated with kidney stones that should be stopped at once. Moreover, if you feel that you are suffering from kidney stone symptoms, then your first action should be to consult with a doctor. Get the best kidney stone treatment in Kolkata.

What causes Kidney stones?

Before we proceed with the rumors, first get to know what causes kidney stones. Kidney stones can occur due to stress or any kind of treatment. The symptoms usually differ from one person to another, including the pain. 

You may experience frequent urination, fever, nausea, cold chills and all of this fluctuate from time to time. Thus, to keep yourself healthy and get proper treatment, it is essential to not hype the myths about kidney stones.

Types of kidney stones 

There are four kinds of kidney stones:

• Calcium oxalate stone
• Calcium phosphate stone 
• Uric acid stone
• Cystine stones

Myth 1: Avoid calcium to prevent kidney stone

Kidney stones are of several types, and the most common one is calcium oxalate stones which are formed when calcium binds with oxalate. People think that because calcium is associated with the kidney, then by avoiding it, they can prevent kidney stones. However, food that is rich in calcium, such as milk, can actually help to prevent and manage kidney stones. This isn’t true for calcium supplements which should only be consumed after consulting with the doctor

Myth 2: Tea can lead to an increased risk of kidney stone

Yes, it is true that you should avoid black tea, which has high oxalate, while you are suffering from kidney stones to prevent the risk. However, not every kind of tea increases the risk. You can consume green tea, which is quite beneficial during these conditions. Other than that, intake of herbal tea and milk tea can also reduce the oxalate content in your body.

Myth 3: Beer can help to pass the kidney stone

Drinking beer can trigger urination, but it has no link with kidney stones. Many think that urination can help pass down small kidney stones, but any alcoholic beverage is not good for the kidney. Because, it might lead to a dehydrating effect which increases the risk of the patient during kidney stone disease. Moreover, some beers also have high oxalate content, which increases the risk of kidney stones, so you should avoid it.

Myth 4: Cranberry juice can reduce kidney stone

Cranberry is often thought to be an ideal herbal remedy for treating kidney stones. However, even if it is true, cranberry juice can keep your kidney healthy and treat urinary tract infections. But, when you are diagnosed with kidney stones, then you must avoid cranberries because they have high oxalate content. Thus, if you are diagnosed with calcium oxide stones, then it is better to avoid cranberry juice. Also, get an appointment of the best kidney stone treatment in Kolkata.

Myth 5: Kidney stone leads to intense pain always

Kidney stones, if ignored for a long time, can lead to painful experiences, especially if the stones are large, it can block the urine. However, not kidney stones are not painful at the early stage. Rather than pain, you can experience sudden symptoms, such as difficulty urinating, discomfort near the lower back, or blood in the urine. This is the time when you should get checked by a medical professional.

Myth 6: Drinking soda causes kidney stone

When you have kidney stones, there are certain restrictions on food and beverages. However, no evidence exists that drinking soda or any specific food can cause stones. But, it’s true that drinking soda is not a healthy option. During kidney stone disease, your body already has high sugar content, so if you are thinking of drinking soda, then try to avoid the ones that contain phosphoric acid.

Myth 7: Every kidney stone treatment requires medical procedure

If your kidney stone is detected to be large, then only you need to undergo surgery or treatment such as shockwave lithotripsy. This helps to pass down the stones on their own. Other than this, you might have to make certain changes in your diet, along with the intake of proper medication. So, based on the latest update, about 10 to 20% of kidney stone conditions require surgery; others can be cured through medication.

Myth 8: Kidney stone feels like having a stomach ache

Usually, the person having kidney stones can feel a range of sensations, starting from throbbing to contraction. It is not at all like any other stomach pain that you might get from menstrual cramps or during child labor.

Myth 9: Milk causes kidney stones

Milk is one of the best sources of calcium, and on the other hand, kidney stones are formed of calcium oxalate. So, most people relate that milk can cause kidney stones, which is totally a wrong idea. Because kidney stones are actually caused due to lack of calcium. So, adding at least one glass of milk or yogurt to your daily diet is always advised to reduce the chances of kidney stones. Along with that, you can also consume magnesium to help prevent kidney stones.

Ways to prevent kidney

• Drink as much fluid as you can in the entire day. It is usually recommended to drink 8 glasses which would help to increase the urine output and also dilute the urine. Thus, preventing the accumulation of oxalates which in turn prevents the formation of kidney stones.
• Keep a healthy gut microbiome, as it can keep your GI tract in proper condition. You can optimize the gut microbiome by eating healthy foods such as fiber, fruits, and vegetables. You can also include yogurt or fermented food in your diet.
• Keep a balanced diet, eat more fruits and vegetables and try to avoid junk food. There are certain fruits and vegetables that can help to reduce the risk of major kidney stone formation. If you have any other health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or suffering from heart disease, then you must consult with the dietitian and get a personalized diet chart. This would prevent the formation of stones in the long run.

Conclusion

These are the common myths that have made things complicated for both the patient and the doctor. If you feel any other symptoms that are associated with kidney stones, as mentioned above, then you must immediately consult with the doctor. Usually, the symptoms and the recurrence of kidney stones differ from one individual’s health condition to another. 

Thus, long-term changes in your lifestyle are required to prevent and manage kidney stones. Also, try not to pay attention to the myths. Rather consult with certified and experienced doctors at ILS Hospitals for the best kidney stone treatment in Kolkata.