Skip to content 
Passing kidney stones is one of the most painful experiences that my patients experience here at Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. As a board-certified urologist, I’ve heard about the best ways to pass kidney stones as quickly as possible.
I’m here to share with you what works when passing kidney stones and how to prevent kidney stones so you don’t end up in the emergency room.
Have a stone? Contact us today.
Table of contents
- Understanding Kidney Stones
- Kidney Stones Symptoms
- Kidney Stones Treatment
- When to See a Urologist for Kidney Stones
- Importance of Hydration
- Dietary Changes to Pass Kidney Stones
- Physical Activity
- How to Prevent Kidney Stones
- Medical Treatments
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some practical ways to pass a kidney stone quickly?
- What are some natural remedies for kidney stones?
- How can I relieve the pain of passing a kidney stone?
- What are some common symptoms of passing a kidney stone?
- What is the best position to be in when passing a kidney stone?
- Can lemon juice help dissolve kidney stones?
Written by Dr. Kia Michel, a board-certified urologist, surgeon, and founding member of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. Dr. Michel’s expertise includes focal therapy (HIFU/TULSA), prostate cancer treatment, robotic surgery, and male enhancement treatments such as Shockwave Therapy for ED and penile injections.
Understanding Kidney Stones
About 10% of adults will experience a kidney stone in their lifetime. So it doesn’t surprise me that patients scour the internet for “how to pass a kidney stone in 24 hours” or “how to pass kidney stones naturally.” They naturally want to avoid passing a kidney stone longer than necessary.
While it is possible to pass a kidney stone at home, larger kidney stones may require medical intervention to break the stone into smaller, more passable pieces.
Rather than avoiding a urologist, it’s recommended that you confirm that your lower back pain is being caused by kidney stones and not other more serious conditions like kidney cancer. It can also help you know the options if a stubborn stone won’t pass through you in a day.
What are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are hard, mineral deposits that form inside the kidneys and can cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract. The rocks comprise various substances, including calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, all consumed in our diet.
Bladder Stones vs. Kidney Stones
Both bladder stones and kidney stones are made of the same chunks of minerals such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and other components. However, kidney stones originate in the kidneys before eventually being urinated out of the body, while bladder stones form in the bladder before being expelled in the urine.
Both bladder stones and kidney stones can be painful and cause blockages that lead to urinary tract infections. However, bladder stones never travel upwards to the kidneys.
Kidney Stone Formation
The top 10 factors for kidney stone formation are:
- Diets rich in salt, animal proteins, and sugar (especially fructose and high fructose corn syrup)
- Dehydration
- Genetics
- Living in Warm Climates where dehydration is more likely
- Lifestyle Habits like over-exercising or not exercising enough
- Obesity
- Certain medical conditions, such as having gout, hyperparathyroidism, chronic diarrhea, IBS
- Excessive use of laxatives
- Some medications for the treatment of Depression and migraines
- Having Gastric Bypass Surgery
Kidney Stones Symptoms
Symptoms of kidney stones may include severe pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen, nausea and vomiting, and pain or burning during urination. Small kidney stones sometimes pass independently, but larger, painful ones require medical intervention. Doing so will save you the prolonged agony of trying to do it without a urologist’s help.
Kidney Stones Treatment
Effective kidney stone treatments include:
- Prescription medication,
- Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
- Surgical removal
- Drinking plenty of fluids along with diluted apple cider vinegar for small stones
Prevention of kidney stones is key. Lifestyle changes such as increasing water intake and reducing sodium, fructose, and animal protein consumption can help reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. Some studies suggest that consuming a small amount of apple cider vinegar daily can prevent kidney stone formation. Green tea and beans may also help prevent kidney stones.
Let me guide you through expediting the process when passing kidney stones.
When to See a Urologist for Kidney Stones
If you suspect you have a kidney stone, seeing a urologist as soon as possible is essential. A urologist is a medical specialist trained to diagnose and treat problems related to the urinary tract and male reproductive system. They can help you determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
Some common signs that you may need to see a urologist for kidney stones include:
Severe pain in your side or back that does not go away
Blood in your urine
Difficulty urinating
Fever and chills
If you experience these symptoms, seeking medical attention immediately is essential. Your urologist can perform a physical exam, review your medical history, and order tests to determine the size and location of your kidney stone.
Sometimes, your urologist may recommend that you undergo a procedure to remove the stone. This may include shock wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, or percutaneous nephrolithotomy. These procedures are typically done on an outpatient basis and have a high success rate.
Suppose you have a history of kidney stones or are at a higher risk for developing them. In that case, your urologist may also recommend lifestyle changes to help prevent future stones from forming. This may include drinking plenty of water, avoiding certain foods, and taking medication to prevent the formation of new stones.
Let’s review all the factors that can help you pass kidney stones quickly.
Importance of Hydration
When it comes to passing a kidney stone, staying hydrated is crucial. Drinking enough fluids helps to flush out the stone and prevent it from getting stuck in the urinary tract, which can lead to severe pain and complications.
You won’t have to drink at least 3 quarts (about ten 10-ounce glasses) of liquid daily, which can help prevent repeat stones. However, the liquid you consume may vary depending on the weather and your activity level. If you live, work, or exercise in hot weather, you may need more liquid to replace the fluid lost through sweat. The right amount of urine to be passed should be enough to fill at least an empty 2-liter bottle of soda per day.
Drinking water regularly throughout the day is essential, even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you have trouble drinking enough water, add a slice of lemon or lime to your water or herbal tea. You can also eat foods with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and celery.
It’s important to note that not all fluids are created equal when it comes to kidney stone prevention. Sugary drinks and alcohol can increase your risk of developing kidney stones, so it’s best to avoid them or limit their consumption.
Dietary Changes to Pass Kidney Stones
Making dietary changes can help prevent kidney stones from forming and help pass them more easily. Here are some dietary changes that we recommend:
Drink plenty of water: Drinking enough water is essential to help flush out the kidney stones. Aim to drink at least 2.5 liters of water per day.
Reduce sodium intake: Eating too much sodium can increase the amount of calcium in your urine, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones. Try to limit your sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams per day.
Eat calcium-rich foods: Contrary to popular belief, eating calcium-rich foods can help prevent kidney stones. Calcium binds with oxalate in the intestines, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. Good sources of calcium include low-fat or fat-free milk products, calcium-fortified foods, and leafy green vegetables.
Limit oxalate-rich foods: Oxalate is a substance that can bind with calcium to form kidney stones. Foods high in oxalate include spinach, rhubarb, beets, nuts, chocolate, and tea. Limiting your intake of these foods can help prevent kidney stones.
Eat more plant-based foods: Plant-based foods are rich in fiber, which can help prevent kidney stones. Good sources of plant-based foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Reduce animal protein intake: Eating too much animal protein can increase the amount of uric acid in your urine, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones. Try to limit your intake of animal protein to 6 ounces per day.
Physical Activity
Physical activity can help move a kidney stone through the urinary tract. However, being cautious and not overexerting yourself is essential, as this can cause more pain and discomfort. Here are some tips for exercising with a kidney stone:
Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to stay hydrated. Dehydration can make passing a kidney stone more difficult and painful.
Avoid high-impact exercises, such as running or jumping, as they can jar the body and cause more pain. Instead, opt for low-impact exercises such as walking or cycling.
Consider doing exercises that target the lower back and abdomen, such as yoga or Pilates. These exercises can help strengthen the muscles in the area and promote kidney stone passage.
If you experience severe pain during exercise, stop immediately and rest. It is essential to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard.
Remember, physical activity should be done in moderation and consultation with your healthcare provider. If you are unsure what exercises are safe, speak with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
How to Prevent Kidney Stones
Preventing kidney stones involves a combination of dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication. Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain and complications if not managed properly. Here are several effective strategies to reduce the risk of developing kidney stones:
Hydration:
- Drink Plenty of Water: Staying well-hydrated is one of the most effective ways to prevent kidney stones. Drinking enough fluids dilutes substances in the urine that lead to stone formation. Aim to drink enough water to produce at least 2 liters of urine daily.
Dietary Adjustments:
- Limit Sodium Intake: High sodium levels can increase calcium in the urine, leading to stone formation. Reducing salt intake can help lower this risk.
- Eat Calcium-Rich Foods: Contrary to popular belief, consuming calcium-rich foods can help prevent stones, especially when paired with foods high in oxalates. This helps to bind oxalates in the gut and prevent them from reaching the kidneys.
- Reduce Oxalate-Rich Foods: Foods such as spinach, nuts, and chocolate are high in oxalates, which can contribute to stone formation. Moderating intake of these foods can be beneficial.
- Limit Animal Protein: High animal protein intake can increase the risk of kidney stones by raising uric acid levels and reducing citrate in the urine, a chemical that helps prevent stones.
Lifestyle Changes:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is linked to an increased risk of kidney stones. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can reduce this risk.
- Avoid Excessive Vitamin C Supplements: High doses of vitamin C can increase oxalate levels in the urine, potentially leading to stone formation.
Medications:
- Medications to Prevent Kidney Stones: For individuals with a history of recurrent kidney stones, doctors may prescribe medications to help prevent stones, such as thiazide diuretics, potassium citrate, or allopurinol, depending on the type of stones.
Regular check-ups with your urologist will help ensure that your lifestyle, diet, and medication management are optimal to prevent kidney stones.
Can Apple Cider Vinegar Treat Kidney Stones?
Apple Cider vinegar can help dissolve stones if you drink it, diluting in room-temperature water for faster absorption. Studies have found that it prevents the formation of kidney stones, which have also been found in beans and green tea. It may sound like a myth, but the home remedy of apple cider vinegar can react with some of the minerals that make up the kidney stone, which could potentially break it apart.
That being said, relying on apple cider vinegar to break apart larger kidney stones without medical help can lead to a UTI from blocking the flow of urine and could prolong the length of the painful process. Vinegar shouldn’t be used as a substitute for quality medical care.
Medical Treatments
If you are experiencing severe pain or your kidney stone has not passed within 24 hours, medical treatment may be necessary. There are several options available, including over-the-counter medication, prescription medication, and shockwave therapy.
Over-The-Counter Medication
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), can help manage pain associated with passing a kidney stone. However, following the recommended dosage and not exceeding the maximum daily limit is essential to avoid potential side effects.
Prescription Medication
If over-the-counter medication is not adequate, your urologist may prescribe stronger pain medication or medication to help relax the ureter muscles and facilitate the passage of the stone. Alpha-blockers, such as tamsulosin (Flomax), are commonly prescribed.
Shockwave Therapy for Kidney Stones – Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), uses high-energy shock waves to break up kidney stones into smaller pieces that can pass more quickly. This non-invasive procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and may require multiple sessions depending on the size and location of the stone.
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a different form of treatment than low-intensity shockwave therapy for ED in that the latter uses much less energy and is used on the body’s surface.
It is important to note that while medical treatment can be effective in passing a kidney stone, it may not be necessary for all cases. It is always best to consult a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some practical ways to pass a kidney stone quickly?
You can pass kidney stones more quickly by drinking plenty of water and fluids to help flush out the stones. Taking pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage the pain. In some cases, medicines called alpha-blockers can help relax the muscles in the ureter, making it easier for the stone to pass.
Moving around gently can help keep the blood flowing in your system and minimize inflammation.
What are some natural remedies for kidney stones?
Some natural remedies that may help pass a kidney stone include drinking plenty of water and fluids, drinking diluted apple cider vinegar, consuming foods high in citric acid, such as lemons and oranges, and taking herbal supplements such as nettle leaf. These home remedies shouldn’t be used in place of medical care. Instead, they are best utilized as a supporting agent.
How can I relieve the pain of passing a kidney stone?
There are several ways to relieve the pain of passing a kidney stone. Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage the pain. Applying heat to the affected area or a warm bath can also help alleviate discomfort. In some cases, prescription pain medications may be necessary.
What are some common symptoms of passing a kidney stone?
Common symptoms of passing a kidney stone include sharp pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen, pain during urination, frequent urination, nausea and vomiting, and blood in the urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention.
What is the best position to be in when passing a kidney stone?
The best position to be in when passing a kidney stone may vary depending on the individual. Some people find that sitting in a warm bath or using a heating pad can help alleviate discomfort. Others may find relief by lying on their side with their knees bent. It is essential to find a comfortable position that helps manage pain.
Can lemon juice help dissolve kidney stones?
Some evidence suggests that consuming lemon juice or other citrus fruits high in citric acid may help prevent the formation of kidney stones and even dissolve small rocks. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before trying natural remedies, as some may interact with medications or have adverse side effects.
Sometimes, our male patients who are already undergoing a medical procedure like surgery for spermatocele, varicocele, or hydrocele choose also to try a cosmetic procedure such as Scrotox to smooth out the wrinkles of the scrotum, scrotoplasty to address low-hanging testicles or penile injections to enhance girth. Schedule your appointment today to explore the options.
