Over The Counter Medicine To Help Pass Kidney Stones
Dealing with kidney stones can be a painful and frustrating experience. Kidney stones are formed when there is an imbalance of minerals and salts in the urine. These minerals and salts stick together and form stones, which can cause severe pain when they pass through the urinary tract.
If you are suffering from kidney stones, you may be wondering if there are any over the counter medicines that can help you pass them. In this article, we will discuss some of the best over the counter medicines that can help you pass kidney stones.
1. Pain Relievers
Kidney stones can cause excruciating pain, so taking a pain reliever can help you manage the pain while you wait for the stone to pass. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can help relieve pain and inflammation.
It is important to note that NSAIDs can have side effects, such as stomach upset and bleeding. If you have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, you should avoid taking NSAIDs.
2. Alpha Blockers
Alpha blockers are medications that relax the muscles in the urinary tract, making it easier for the stone to pass. Tamsulosin is a common alpha blocker used to help pass kidney stones.
Alpha blockers can have side effects, such as dizziness and low blood pressure. If you experience any of these side effects, you should stop taking the medication and contact your doctor.
3. Diuretics
Diuretics are medications that help increase urine production, which can help flush out the kidney stones. Over the counter diuretics, such as caffeine and green tea extract, can be effective in helping pass kidney stones.
It is important to note that diuretics can cause dehydration, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking them. If you have any medical conditions that affect your fluid intake, you should talk to your doctor before taking diuretics.
4. Herbal Remedies
There are several herbal remedies that can help pass kidney stones. Chanca piedra is an herb that has been used for centuries to treat kidney stones. It is believed to work by breaking down the stones and making them easier to pass.
Other herbal remedies, such as dandelion root and nettle leaf, can help increase urine production and flush out the kidney stones.
5. Calcium Supplements
It may seem counterintuitive, but taking calcium supplements can actually help prevent kidney stones. Calcium binds with oxalate in the intestines, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream and forming kidney stones.
It is important to talk to your doctor before taking calcium supplements, as they can have side effects and can interact with other medications you may be taking.
Conclusion
Kidney stones can be a painful and frustrating experience, but there are over the counter medicines that can help you pass them. Pain relievers, alpha blockers, diuretics, herbal remedies, and calcium supplements can all be effective in helping pass kidney stones.
It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any over the counter medicines, as they can have side effects and can interact with other medications you may be taking. Drinking plenty of fluids and maintaining a healthy diet can also help prevent kidney stones from forming.
