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Kidney stones are small, hard accumulations of dissolved minerals that build up in the kidneys and may be painful to pass. While they can be tiny at first, in some cases, they may grow to be quite large. Whether you’ve had this medical issue in the past or you’re simply learning more to stay informed about your health, discover some misconceptions about the condition below.

Kidney Stone Myths, Debunked

1. Calcium & Salt Are to Blame

Many individuals blame their stones on specific ingredients. Calcium won’t contribute to their formation, however, and in some cases, more calcium is actually needed to prevent them. While there’s a chance a high-salt diet could also contribute to stone development, in many cases, it’s other lifestyle factors, such as dehydration and overall poor diet, that play a bigger role.

2. Cranberry Juice Will Help

kidney stonesThere is a component in cranberries that may help to keep bacteria out of your urinary tract, but this doesn’t make the juice a cure-all for every urinary or kidney issue. In fact, drinking cranberry juice could worsen your stones, as it’s high in oxalate, which may contribute to them. Drinking water is a better way to stay hydrated for kidney stone prevention and treatment.

3. Stones Typically Pass Within Hours

In most cases, stones pass within two or three days. Yet, it’s possible they could take longer in some cases. If you have a stone and it fails to pass, make a point to go back to your doctor, as leaving it unaddressed could have long-term effects on your kidneys. For example, some stones can develop to be the size of a golf ball if left untreated.

 

If you suspect you could have kidney stones, don’t hesitate to contact the team from Medical Center Urology. Serving Guilford County, NC, this practice has provided quality urology services to the Triad Area for more than 25 years. In addition to the diagnosis, analysis, and treatment of kidney stones, their practice also specializes in prostate cancer screenings, incontinence treatment, and infertility concerns. Find out more about their comprehensive services online or call (336) 882-0220 to schedule an appointment.

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