QUESTION:
how many types of kidney stones are there? i know of the calcium oxalate ones but how many more are there?

• ANSWER:

QUESTION:
Can you dissolve kidney stones (at home)? If yes, how?
I know that there are different types of kidney stones (calcium, uric acid, etc.) but if they are able to dissolved, can they be dissolved the same way or do you need different treatments for different stones?

• ANSWER:
  Actually it can work but that depends on the size of the stone. But it is worth trying. I prefer you see this:
  http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/kidney_stones3.html#RF_41209

  Post your questions in:
  http://med50.blogspot.com/2010/04/patient-education-program.html

QUESTION:
Can you dissolve kidney stones? If yes, how?
I know that there are different types of kidney stones (calcium, uric acid, etc.) but if they are able to dissolved, can they be dissolved the same way or do you need different treatments for different stones?

• ANSWER:
  I know you can break them using laser removal. But that's all I know

QUESTION:
Who can identify a Kidney stone type?
Can anyone recognize a kidney stone? I mean what type it is. I have a photo of the stone I eliminated yesterday. It is a very clear picture and I wold like to identify the type.

• ANSWER:

QUESTION:
What do brown kidney stones mean?
I'm a young female and from the doctor's mouth directly I have a "crowd" or kidney stones. I'm starting to pass them and am looking for what type of stone I have and they seem to look brownish. Know what that means?

• ANSWER:
  Some stones are even as big as golf balls. Stones may be smooth or jagged. They are usually yellow or brown. Golf-ball-sized and brown kidney stones.

QUESTION:
What type of kidney stone can too much Kremil-S make one prone to?
Its Almuninum Hydroxide Magnesium Simethicone.

We're doing a urinalysis to be sure but I want to know in advance as I am so worried about it! Thanks.

• ANSWER:
  Struvite stones contain magnesium, ammonia and phosphorus. Calcium stones are common. Struvite stones are formed in infected urine. See-
  http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec11/ch148/ch148c.html
  Hope it helps.

QUESTION:
What type of kidney stone can not be detected through x-ray? How about through sonogram?
I'm trying to determine what it's made of because treatment depends on what it is.
It didn't show up in the x-ray and wasn't noticeable on ultrasound.

• ANSWER:
  There are four types of kidney stones, which are Calcium Oxalate or Phosphate, Sturvite, Uric acid and Cystine stones. X-Ray can detect Calcium, Sturvite and Cystine stones. X-ray will NOT detect Uric Acid stones, because they are radiolucent. Ultrasound can detect all of these types of stones. Ultrasound can miss small stones and stones in the ureter connecting the kidney and the bladder. Calcium stones account for 80% of all kidney stones and can be detected by both CT and Ultrasound if the size is large enough. CT scan stone protocol is the preferred diagnostic test for kidney stones, because it is more reliable than X-ray or Ultrasound. The stones can also be collected by straining the urine and sending the stone to the lab for analysis. They type of stone is usually not determined unless a person has had a kidney stone more than once. Regarding your case, your stone was likely too small to be detected with ultrasound and maybe X-ray. It is also possible that your symptoms were not due to a kidney stone if there is no diagnostic test that shows you have stones.

  You are correct that the treatment of kidney stones does vary depending on the type of stone present. All people with kidney stones should drink plenty of fluids to dilute the urine and prevent further stone formation. Good luck to you.

QUESTION:
Are kidney stones a form of chemical precipitation?
hey =D

I heard somewhere that the formation of kidney stones are a type of chemical precipitation (something to do with a Calcium build-up?) Is this true?

TIA,
Vallie xx

• ANSWER:
  You are correct, they are formed from precipitation, mostly of calcium oxalate, although some are formed from precipitated uric acid.

QUESTION:
I chipped a tooth while chewing on a kidney stone. What type of insurance will cover this?
Wasn’t sure if this would be a Dental or Medical claim. I’m not positive if it was my own kidney stone or one that somebody else passed, if that matters.

• ANSWER:
  You should place a claim to your home insurance, under the "force majeure" clause.

  This is a common dilemma, especially among those with a Cajun background:

  The understanding of force majeure in French law is similar to that of international law and vis major. For a defendant to invoke force majeure in French law, the event proposed as force majeure must pass three tests:

  Externality
  The defendant must have nothing to do with the event's happening.
  Unpredictability
  If the event could be foreseen, the defendant is obligated to have prepared for it.[3] Being unprepared for a foreseeable event leaves the defendant culpable. This standard is very strictly applied:
  CE 9 April 1962, "Chais d’Armagnac": The Conseil d'Etat adjudged that, since a flood had occurred 69 years before the one that caused the damage at issue, the latter flood was predictable.
  Administrative tribunal of Grenoble, 19 June 1974, "Dame Bosvy": An avalanche was judged to be predictable since another had occurred around 50 years before.
  Irresistibility
  The consequences of the event must have been unpreventable.
  Other events that are candidates for force majeure in French law are hurricanes and earthquakes. Force majeure is a cause of relief from responsibility that is applicable throughout French law.

  From the above excerpt, I feel confident that, since you have no prior history of kidney stone injury, your claim will be accepted and paid in full. There is little difference between kidney stone attacks and hurricanes.

  I once chipped my tooth in a movie theater while eating Jujubees, and now own the 3D movie glasses empire.

QUESTION:
cysterine stone type of kidney stone?
anyone know a good remedy to stop them recurring

• ANSWER:
  cysteine stone is a type of kidney stone. Some ppl are genetically predisposed to kidney stones. Drink lots of fluid, try and not get dehydrated if u live in a heated area such as Florida and reduced sodium intake.

  check out this website

  http://kidneydiseases.about.com/od/stonetypes/a/Overview0011.htm

QUESTION:
23 weeks pregnant...kidney infection/stones?
Back in 2009 when i was pregnant with my daughter i had a kidney infection, it was treated at the hospital but after a while i started getting sharp pains where my left kidney is, i went to my family dr they took a urine sample and it was normal. The pain still happened on and off. Now i'm 23 weeks pregnant and a few weeks ago i had a bladder infection and the last day of the infection i had a terrible pain in my right kidney then i went "pee" and it looked like a super small stone type thing came out, and the pain stopped in my kidney and bladder. Last night i had a super sharp pain in my left which lasted maybe 5 minutes before leaving, and this morning i experienced this as well. My question is do you think if i possibly had a kidney stone is this something that will just finish passing by itself? I was suppose to see a kidney specialist after my first baby but i didn't.

• ANSWER:
  I think u should go to the doctors because your pregnant and that can affect the baby.

QUESTION:
kidney stones, passing?
have both types of stones, tried all pharmacueticals and natural I could read about, any miracle cures

• ANSWER:
  Get on the riding lawn mower and ride around for a few hours a week. That'll get them moving toward the exit.

QUESTION:
Brushite (cal phosphate) kidney stones?
I am a 36 yo white female suffering from recurrent brushite stones for the past 5 years. I have done numerous 24 hour catches, full blood work-ups examining chemical makeups in my body. I drink tons of water with fresh, organic lemon and still produce the stones. I have just recently started a low oxalate diet regime as well. Does anyone out there produce this type of stone? If so, do you have any prevention tips?

• ANSWER:
  Hi Angela. I have been a chronic stone former for more than 25 years. In my case, they have been a byproduct of undiagnosed Celiac Disease (CD). CD damages the lining of the gut creating a 'leaky gut'. The leaky gut allows large amounts of oxalate to be absorbed. Oxalate drives the formation of most kidney stones. Be sure your docs have tested you for this condition (note: you do not need GI symptoms to have this disease - many celiac patients are 'asymptomatic').

  Brushite (calcium phosphate) stones occur with a high urine pH. Citrate (e.g. potassium citrate supplements) is often prescribed for most stone formers because it helps to prevent the formation and the attachment of the stones to the kidney. In your case, citrate (including citric acid in citrus fruits) is contraindicated because it also raises the urine pH which can contribute to your type of stone formation.

  For high pH stone formers supplementation with Inositol Hexaphophate (IP6, AKA phytate) is the 'weapon' of choice. It helps to prevent stone formation at high (greater than 6.5) pH levels.

  Your healthcare professional can order IP6 from Pure Encapsulations, a nutritional supplement company that only sells their products through professionals.

  I found a report in the medical literature of a case of calcium phosphate stone formation resulting from cadmium toxicity. Cadmium is a common heavy metal (most people have some of it in their body) that is toxic to the kidneys. It may be a good idea to have your docs test you for heavy metal toxicities (arsenic and mercury can also damage the kidneys).

  In summary, 1) avoid foods and supplements (e.g. citrate and citrus fruits) that can dramatically increase your urine pH [you can monitor your pH with pH paper - you want to keep it below 6.5], 2) supplement with IP6 to inhibit stone formation at a high pH, 3) get tested for Celiac disease, and 4) get tested for heavy metal toxicity.

  Best wishes and good luck.

QUESTION:
What type of Dr treats kidney stones?
What type of Dr treats kidney stones

• ANSWER:
  urologist

QUESTION:
What are the organs of stone formation?
kidney stones is a type of it.but there are many types of stones.i got about only one. please help me to gather info about other types of stones formed in humans

• ANSWER:
  In medicine, these "stones" are called "calculi".

  There are five main types of calculi that can form in the body:
  1. Calculi in the renal system (kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder, urethra) can be of any one of several compositions, including mixed.
  2. Calculi in the nasal passages (rhinoliths) are rare.
  3. Calculi in the gastrointestinal tract (enteroliths) can be enormous. Individual enteroliths weighting many pounds have been reported in horses.
  4. Salivary duct calculus
  5. Tonsillolith

QUESTION:
what type of medication allows the kidney stones to breakdown and pass?

• ANSWER:
  When the stone passes, the urine should be strained and the stone saved and tested to determine the type.

  Drink at least 6 - 8 glasses of water per day to produce a large amount of urine. Some people might need to get fluids through a vein (intravenous).

  Pain relievers can help control the pain of passing the stones (renal colic). For severe pain, you may need to take narcotic pain killers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen.
  Depending on the type of stone, your doctor may prescribe medicine to decrease stone formation or help break down and remove the material that is causing the stone. Medications can include:

  Allopurinol (for uric acid stones)
  Antibiotics (for struvite stones)
  Diuretics
  Phosphate solutions
  Sodium bicarbonate or sodium citrate (which make the urine more alkaline)
  Surgery is usually needed if:

  The stone is too large to pass on its own
  The stone is growing
  The stone is blocking urine flow and cuasing an infection or kidney damage
  Today, most treatments are much less invasive than in the past.

  Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy is used to remove stones slightly smaller than a half an inch that are located near the kidney. This method uses ultrasonic waves or shock waves to break up stones. Then, the stones leave the body in the urine.
  Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is used for large stones in or near the kidney, or when the kidneys or surrounding areas are incorrectly formed. The stone is removed with an endoscope that is inserted into the kidney through a small opening.
  Ureteroscopy may be used for stones in the lower urinary tract.
  Standard open surgery (nephrolithotomy) may be needed if other methods do not work or are not possible.

QUESTION:
What type of liquid is good for kidney stones?

• ANSWER:
  There is nothing that will get rid of one that's big enough to hurt, but to prevent them you can drink lemonade. As long as it has lots of real lemon juice in it, the acid found in lemons (not limes or oranges) actually breaks down the calcium and oxalates that are just starting to stick together. My urologist told me about the studies on it and suggested I drink a glass of it a day.

  I'm sure it's not proven for sure and might not prevent all types of stones, but it can't hurt to try, right?

QUESTION:
cystoscopy and stent removal after kidney stones...?
Hi I have an unusual and slightly personal question....
(background)..I recently had an operation to have kidney stones removed and they had to put a stent in my Uretha tube which stayed there for 5 weeks. I went to have the stent removed which should take about 5 mins max.

They placed a camera through the end of my penis and a small rod with a claw so they could grab one end of the stent and pull it through and out of my penis... unfortunately (for me) the stent was only a few centermeters out one end when it got stuck... after alot of what I would call "YANKING" and pulling and what felt like "Ramming" of the camera back in and out about 4 times! and much gel and anesthic down there, they finally got it out after about 15/20mins (yes ouch). the reason for it getting stuck was allegedly that more stones/crystally type things formed around the stent making it lodged (probably scrathed its way out aswell)... anyways to my question....
I understand that there has been burning when I pee, etc as infections are common with this precedure and itt will naturaly burn a few days after anyways... but is it natural to have extreme pain on the underneath of my penis (under the spongy uretha) when I get even the slightest erection... excuse the termanolgy here but even when its under a semi im just get this awful pain .. like its broken or something? is this common... do you think it is just a lil pain from them man-handling me for 20mins or could this be serious damage ?? It doesnt hurt when its soft and it seems to have a curvature to it when its is slightly firm (which wasnt there before)???? and the pain is only on the underneath of the penis? sorry for the essay but as you can imaging ..for a mid 20's guy .. the slightly firm bit is causing me alot of problems (PAIN) (lighter note...especially in the mornings). Anyways any advise would be good thank you.

• ANSWER:
  When they try to yank the stent from your ureter, it is but natural that there will be some abrasions all along the tract. So, it is normal to have burning sensation while passing urine. However, if they have struggled to pull the stent out, they might have caused something more than just abrasion. Watch for the stream when you are peeing. If it is a steady stream without you straining much, then there is nothing to worry. However, if you are struggling to maintain a steady stream, then your urethra may have been damaged. Pain while having erection is a normal phenomenon. it is like stretching a wound in your arm when it is in healing stages; more you stretch,more is the pain. I hope that makes some sense to you.

QUESTION:
why do they put vitamin D in calcium and and what is the type of calcium that doesn't cause kidney stones?
my friend told me there's a calcium that won't cause kidney stones

and why is vitamin d in every calcium supplement do they have to go together for the body to absorb the calcium? Thanks

• ANSWER:
  I don't think there is more than one type of calcium lol. Calcium is calcium. Yes Vitamin D is necessary for the body to absorb the calcium. I wouldn't worry to much about kidney stones, unless you are taking an overabundant amount of calcium or vitamin D, or have some underlying health problem that would cause them. Taking a normal dose of calcium and vitamin D is, in most cases, a good thing.

QUESTION:
Does stress cause kidney stones to pass?
Would undergoing any type of stress, be a reason for a kidney stone to pass; when found that the stone has passed? Facts show how Kidney stones may occur, but nothing really giving a reason for the untreated/un noticed stubborn kidney stone to decide to move or even pass?

• ANSWER:
  Not related at all.
  Stress brings on anxiety...Does not cure anything.

QUESTION:
What can I do for kidney stones?
I am only 8 weeks pregnant, and I went to the hospital two days ago for a UTI. I had them test, but it came back negative for all bladder infections of all types. I was stunned and they didn't look any further into it, they just sent me home. It is throbbing and I have to pee all the time. It feels aa little dull compared to all the other kidney stones I have had, but this could be the only thing. What should I do?

• ANSWER:
  WHen you are 8 weeks pregnant (well.. when you are pregnant in general, really) your growing uterus is pressing on your bladder, and can make you feeling like peeing more. Pregnant women are more prone to infections, and I would assume your hospital sent your urine off for culture to check for organisms (bugs).

  If you've got a history of kidney stones, and this feels like stones, then you should drink more water and hope that it flushes away. If the pain persists, your doctor may arrange for a renal scan to look for signs of your ureters (part of your urinary tract) dilating more than usual. Doctors are unlikely to treat your stones with medication or ultrasound therapy whilst you are pregnant.

  Saying that, with stones, the pain is usually sudden and intermittent, and very sore.

  If your symptoms persist, ask your doctor to resend your urine sample for culture testing again - and make sure you collect urine from the FIRST pee you have in the morning - as it tends not to be too dilute (compared to a sample taken later in the day, when you might have drunk enough water to dilute it)

QUESTION:
Is there a correllation between kidney stones, gallstones, and any type of cancer?
A little background. I'm 20, female, healthy and active. I have had kidney stones since I was 18, and I currently have a 17mm gallstone in my gallbladder (first time). I've had moderate to severe localized abdominal pain. I had an ultrasound about 2 weeks ago and it said I have a gallstone and that my liver looked "okay" (what my dr. said.). My pain: my back, obviously my gallbladder and kidneys, and pain occasionally in my loins. I also had some blood work done, and it said that my urine had a little blood (my period did not start until 2 days later) and that there was bacteria present. I've had Urinary Tract Infections before, so I know that that wasn't it. Please help.

• ANSWER:
  There can be. They are usually familial. Called MEN syndromes. Also you may wish to have your DR. Make sure your calcium levels are normal and also ask what kind of kidney stones they were? Hope this helped.

QUESTION:
Does Coke/Pop cause kidney stones?
Hey,

Now, i have been drinking Coke my entire life. Well, almost. I drink only a bit, but I used to be crazy and drink 3 or 4 cans a week. I began to expirence lower back pain, and realized it was my kidneys. I was worried I had kidney stones. No problem. Now, It was th end of the year, so I had about 2 cans of coke and a half a can of Sprite the last week. Now my right kidney hurts. Just a little, no hard pains. This has happen to me before, but I just want to know, what is it? Does Coke cause kidney stones. Also, what are the symptoms of kidney stones?

Please excuse my typing as my "Shift" key broke.

• ANSWER:
  kidney stones are caused by calcium build-up in the urinary tract. this could be from drinking too much milk, sodium. Soda drinks are a tough substance for the kidneys to "clean" up. If one drinks a lot of sodas they should counteract that by drinking more h2o.
  you just may need a good kidney flush with some cranberry juice or aloe vera juice.

  Some people share that this is the closest a man can feel that a woman would have when having a baby from labor pains.

QUESTION:
Is there a such thing as a "bath tub" type thing that breaks up kidney stones?
is there a bath that hospitals use for patients to sit in to get rid of kidney stones that are lodged in the kidney

• ANSWER:
  Its called extracoporeal shockwave lithotripsy, and is usually done under mild sedation.

  There is a newer version where the patient lies on a special bed with a silicon ring in the middle that is filled with water, and the shockwaves are delivered through that. It is more powerful than the bath tub, so the patients are put completely out with general anaesthesia.

  Both types may take more than one treatment to completely break up stones - depends on size and composition of the stone.

QUESTION:
what are the preventions to take if we have kidney stones?
i have been hospitalized for kidney stone twice and i have trough away 2 stones normaly by drinking lot of water i refuse to go for operation and i want to know how to prevent the sedimentation and formation of the such stone, plz help if u know what diet have to take or what type of exercise to do...ant type of medicinal herbs to use?

• ANSWER:
  do not drink soda. do not drink coffee. maintain a healthy weight. drink a lot of water and 100% juice to keep your system flushed.

  I have had kidney stones too. I hate them!!
  this is what the doctor told me, and it seems to have worked!

QUESTION:
What would happen if you had the urge to pee / poop but you had kidney stones? Explain.?
If you had the urge to pee / poop, but you had kidney stones, would you roll on the floor yelling and screaming like an infant for help? How painful would it be to hold it in or when it slips out? Would you be hospitalized? Tell me what you know! But be specific! No source links, no simple answers, and no unanswered responses. Those type of answers will not be rated best answer.

• ANSWER:
  I was in the hospital when I sprained my ancle and the guy in the room next to me kept talking about how bad his kidney stone hurted and when he finally did pee, he was literally screaming. So, I am assuming it is pretty bad depending on the size of it. Even if it was a small one I am sure it would hurt. The 'walls' in the hospital we went to were just kind of curtains. Thats why I could hear and I know.

QUESTION:
I have a question about Kidney stones?
I went to the emergency room last night and found out I had kidney stones. I have a 4mm stone.

My question is they told me to follow up with a urologist. I have no insurance. Is there really any need to follow up since I was told that it was going to have to pass anyway. It's hard for me to afford all these medical bills. I can't think of anything different that a urologist is going to be able to tell me.

The emergency room did a ct scan and found everything to be fine except for inflammation in the urethra and the 4mm stone. The doctor said it was small enough to pass. What is a specialist going to do differently in the follow-up? Why is noone doing anything? They keep saying that it will pass and do nothing else, but subscribe pain medication.

What are the best types of fluids I should now start drinking and Is their any comfortable position to get in during one of the pain attacks? I could not sit still. I was hurting so bad and never want to go through it again.

• ANSWER:
  Lemonade made with lemon juice--not fresh lemons--has been shown to reduce the formation of stones. So it is a good idea to drink about a two or three quaarts of this throughout the day. Please use a sugar subsititue when making it because sugar is not good for your kidneys. Or put some in your regular hot tea if you are a tea drinker.

  An herb from the rain forest, Chanca Piedra, has been used to relax the kidneys so that they do not spasm as much. On this note, you should avoid foods known to cause inflamation. See the list below. If you keep your carbs to about 72 grams a day it should work too. You feel will great (assuming the stone is quite) in 3 or 4 days.

  As to the best position? Well, I would make sure I can hold on to something when going to the bathroom just in case you get an attack.

  Good luck.

QUESTION:
My Cat has Kidney Or bladder Stones...Help.?
My vet told me today that our cat oliver still has urie in his blood (over 6 months now of peeing on carpets & trying differnt things) and that there is more than likly kidney stones which they do not recommend surgery cause cats dont take well to it or bladder stones. The bladder stone there are 4 types of and 2 of them will keep coming back while the other one prob will as well it can be treated (maybe) with special food.

Does all of this infor i got from my vet sound right?

Basically he's opting for olver to be put down because its not fair to him our us.

• ANSWER:

QUESTION:
Has anyone had kidney stones during pregnancy?
If so, what types of treatment did you have done, especially those people who got them ealry in pregnancy?

• ANSWER:
  Not during pregnancy ...thank God, but I do get them frequently so I discussed this with my doctor..You can go to the ER, they can give you Morphine if the pain is sever enough..this is supposed to be ok and not hurt the baby..Or if you have had them before you can kind of Gage how your body is feeling and judge from there...I can usually tell where they are in relation to my kidney region, ureters, bladder etc...so you may know when you're going to pass them..Good news is I have talked to several women who said kidney stones were worse than childbirth..I guess that makes me feel a little better...Good Luck!!!

QUESTION:
Anyone who has had a kidney infection/kidney problems.?
Back in 2009 when i was pregnant with my daughter i had a kidney infection, it was treated at the hospital but after a while i started getting sharp pains where my left kidney is, i went to my family dr they took a urine sample and it was normal. The pain still happened on and off. Now i'm 23 weeks pregnant and a few weeks ago i had a bladder infection and the last day of the infection i had a terrible pain in my right kidney then i went "pee" and it looked like a super small stone type thing came out, and the pain stopped in my kidney and bladder. Last night i had a super sharp pain in my left which lasted maybe 5 minutes before leaving, and this morning i experienced this as well. My question is do you think if i possibly had a kidney stone is this something that will just finish passing by itself? I was suppose to see a kidney specialist after my first baby but i didn't.

• ANSWER:

QUESTION:
Kidney stones? anyone who has had them or knows about them?
Anyone that has had kidney stones or knows about them. Can you have a 'lead up' to a kidney stone attack. I have had extreme episodes of kidney pain, lasting form 1 minute to 15 minutes for the last few months. The pain seems to be getting more frequent and lasting longer. I sometimes also have red/tea coloured urine and bladder pain/aching just before urination, but no pain or burning with urination. I wonder about the kidney area pain as everything I've read and been told suggests that you have the extreme pain and it doesn't stop and you would pass a stone or have it removed. Is it possible to have tiny kidney stones hat could cause this type of on going pain and I don't know that I am actually passing them? or could it be a lead up to a big attack of a kidney stone/s? Thanks.

• ANSWER:
  You really need to see a physician. Your symptoms sound serious. Here is some important information that should help you.

  http://www.essortment.com/all/kidneystones_rclg.htm
  Anyone who has ever had the misfortune of enduring a kidney stone attack will tell you exactly how painful this condition can be. In fact, the pain is most often compared with the pangs of natural childbirth. This is no exaggeration or wishful thinking. The stabbing and shooting pains that accompany a major kidney stone attack can bring you literally to your knees, unable to even drive yourself to proper medical attention. While major pain-killers such as Demerol can do wonders for the immediate discomfort, a victim of a kidney stone attack must still face days of intravenous fluid treatments and possible surgical intervention before getting substantial relief. A permanent change in diet and lifestyle is often required, and the patient still faces the chance of several reoccurances over a lifetime. Prevention is the true key to avoiding serious kidney stone attacks, but heredity and gender are usually working against those who have a predisposition to kidney disease.

  So what are the warning signs and symptoms of a kidney stone attack? It's difficult to be specific, because you may experience any combination of some general symptoms. Some kidney stone sufferers may feel a dull, non-descript pain in their lower back for days, while others are suddenly crippled by extremely sharp pains. These symptoms and warning signs are intended to be a general layman's guide to self-diagnosing a possible kidney stone attack, not a substitute for proper medical attention. If you feel pains that are unrelenting and strong, seek a doctor's care as soon as possible. Don't wait until the actual attack begins- a simple in-office urine test can usually diagnose a kidney stone condition long before the actual attack.

  Here are the most common symptoms and warning signs of a kidney stone attack:
  1. Medical history and gender. Although women are just as likely to develop kidney problems
  , the majority of kidney stone sufferers are men. Some researchers believe that a family history of kidney problems can significantly increase your own chances of developing kidney stones. Check out any known family medical history that indicates a predisposition to kidney stones. Forewarned can be forearmed. If you know that kidney stone attacks run in the family, make sure you use good preventive measures, such as increasing your non-sugared, non-caffeine fluid intake and avoiding excessive dairy consumption, especially at night. Never intentionally work your body into a state of severe dehydration, which may occur if you work long hours at a physically demanding job or spend too much time in the heat. Always take plenty of water breaks when working excessive hours. Those who are prone to kidney stone attacks should never be far from two things- a good water supply and a bathroom. Withholding urination for an extended amount of time will work against you in the long run.

  2. Dull, 'toothachy' pain originating in the lower back or pelvis. This may be your first indication that something serious is developing.

  The level of pain may be continuous, or it may come and go in waves. It will rarely disappear entirely. You may take an analgesic tablet or two, expecting the pain to dissipate. After a few hours or even days, the pain will most likely increase in degree and be more definite in its location. Some victims feel a definite tension in the kidney area, as if their urine was trying to get past a blockage. You may even feel a 'squirting' sensation internally, as fluids try to get past the blockage. Even if the pain is tolerable, it should never be left unchecked.

  3. Fever, disorientation, general 'blahs'. Along with this dull pain in the lower back, many victims experience a general sense of disorientation and fatigue. You may feel feverish or chilled. Your thought process may become cloudier, and your energy level dramatically lower. An actual fever may or may not be present, but you still experience the same nausea and grogginess you might associate with a serious cold or stomach bug. Walking becomes more and more difficult, and the pain makes everyday tasks nearly impossible. You may experience trouble reaching above your head, or recovering from a bent position.

  4. Signs of blood in the urine. If you can, observe any urine you secrete during this time of distress. You may be able to see actual blood traces in the urine, or the urine itself may be an unusual color.

  If your urine is a deep orange color, you are most likely dehydrated. Any blood in the urine is cause for alarm. In combination, a dark-colored urine associated with sharp pains in the kidney region should be a red flag for you to seek help immediately. For less severe symptoms, you should dramatically increase your intake of water and/or cranberry juice. Make a (see the site for the rest)

QUESTION:
How to get dog to eat prescription food?
My chihuahua was just diagnosed with kidney stones. Aside from the surgical option, my vet said that some types of kidney stones can be dissolved in 3-6 months by eating only Hill Prescription Diet S/D. I served it to my dog today, but he will not eat it. I feel sad for him, because he is signaling to me that he wants to eat, but he will not touch this food. I normally serve him regular dry kibble daily and small amounts of wet Beneful a few times per week. This prescription food is canned, but it looks dry and gross with no texture. Any ideas on how I can get him to eat it, or do I just need to make him "starve" until he is desperate enough to eat?

• ANSWER:
  Unfortunately, s/d is not the most palatable diet from Hills. However, it is important that you stick with the prescription food - it is a prescription and contrary to what most people on here think, if there is proof (ie. radiographs) then your doctor is doing what is best for the pet not looking for some kickback (Hills doesn't having a kick back for putting an animal on a prescription diet, or any real kick backs that I know about).

  You probably do need to slowly introduct the food and not just give the s/d. Most likely, you can not add anything after you've made the switch (ie the gravy someone else mentioned) because the food works by altering the pH of your dog's urine to desolve the crystals. Adding other things to the diet unfortunately can make it so the food isn't working at all and surgery will become your only option. Make the transition over a week and if you are still having problems, here are a few options.

  1. Ask your vet about another diet. Hills is only one of three (I don't count the Iams/Eukanuba brand since not many vets carry these prescription diets) prescription diets. Purina and Royal Canin both make urinary stone disolving diets. I, personally, see a lot of success from Royal Canin's Urinary SO. Your dog may accept one of these better than s/d.

  2. There is a homemade version of s/d. You'll have to ask your veterinarian (or email me if he/she doesn't have it and you have to choose this route) for the recipe, but there is a home made diet version of s/d that your dog may take better. The recipe is made by Hills to mirror the action of s/d. They have a lot of home cooking recipes for thier prescription diets which is very useful for a picky eating dog.

  3. Go to surgery. Your vet didn't just look at your dog and say, hey, I'll make some money and sell this food because I can. Your vet found a legitamate problem and has given you your options: a prescription food or surgery. I'll admit some vets are all about making money off the client, but this is the same path we offer our clients so its not like its uncommon. (This is pretty much written towards all these people on here who think the vet is the devil)

  I hope you can get your dog to eat the food and that it works for you. I've seen some remarkable results with using a stone desolving food so it is definately worth the effort so keep trying. BTW, in case someone suggests this, there is no kibble form of s/d, only canned. Good luck!

  PS. remember to measure the number of weeks the dr. wanted your dog on the food starting when your dog is completely on the diet, not including the days you transition. also, treats are a big no no on these prescription diets because they can counteract the food! so you'll need to get him on the diet and nothing else.

QUESTION:
2mm kidney stone now 1.5 mm after 2 months, also doesn't show up on ultrasound?
If a kidney stone doesn't show up on ultrasound, does that tell you what type of stone it is?

Also, this stone has been in my kidney for 2 months, I have no idea if this is causing all of my weird back/muscle aches in my torso. Sometimes I feel nausea throughout the day. A recent ct scan w/ contrast showed the same stone, but they reported it at 1.5mm now. They keep saying that the stone would not cause any symptoms, but I have not been doing well for over 2 months, I'm 27. Has anyone had a small stone that did cause symptoms?

• ANSWER:
  I have not had a stone as I take apple cider vinegar:

  In Herbs of the Earth by Mary Carse, she lists under stones and gravel in the urinary system pertaining to kidneys and the bladder, that these are rare where apple cider or vinegar are a staple of the diet. (I note that this reference does not state whether the vinegar needs to be apple cider vinegar, but the brands in the health food aisle are less processed.

  The woman I work for now, says her daughter passed a kidney stone (identified by a doctor) after taking apple cider vinegar. The Braggs brand found in the health food aisle suggests to take 2 teaspoons in water with honey 3 times daily and there is another organic brand called Spectrum.

  +++++++++++++++++++++++++

  In In Apple Cider Vinegar Health System by the Braggs 1985 or 34th printing, it states on p 21:

  A large number of kidney stones are of the type that can be dissolved with cider vinegar.

  Use cider vinegar freely on salads consisting of cabbage, carrots, celery, beet root, tomatoes, green onions, parsley, cucumbers. Eat prunes, raisins, apples, at the same meal with the cider vinegar on the salad.

  I hope this helps.

  Mistoday

QUESTION:
Can I take Glucosamine with multivitamin and Fish Oils?
Can I take Glucosamine with multivitamin and Fish Oils? As in is it okay to take all three pills a day? Multivitaims are 2 a day, fish oils are 3 a day and Glucosamine 3 times a day. Will this cause any problems for me? Kidney stones or any type of inner infections!!

• ANSWER:
  You should have no problems at all. There is a study showing that fish oil combined with glucosamine is more effective than glucosamine alone. [1] In a multivitamin there are fat soluble vitamins that need the presence of fat to be absorbed properly. It would seem that the supplements that you are taking are all working together in a synergistic fashion.

  To my knowledge there is no risk of infections or kidney stones from taking those combination of supplements. The safety factor of supplements in general is clear. "There was not even one death caused by a dietary supplement in 2009, according to the most recent information collected by the U.S. National Poison Data System." [2]

QUESTION:
Can antibiotics get rid of kidney stones?
I have a friend that has been experiencing pain in her back as well as pain on urination and blood in her urine.She just had a kub ultrasound done yesterday. The Doctor said there was nothing of concern showing up in her kidneys other than 1 small kidney stone. The doctor told my friend that the stone could easily be gotten rid of by taking antibiotics (which she has already done twice prior to the ultrasound with no improvement). Could it be that she was not given the proper antibiotic for removing kidney stones but one for UTI instead (which was the preliminary diagnosis)? I myself have a very large kidney stone in my left kidney which my urologist has been monitoring for the past 4 years with an annualy Xray. It has never given me the least bit of trouble and I have never seen blood in my urine. If it's true that kidney stones can be gotten rid of with antibiotics why wouldn't my urologist have already prescribedthem for my stone? He said the only solution is to do one of 2 procedures, one which involves going up through the urethra and into the kidney breaking up the stone into small pieces that would still have to be passed with urination ...VERY painful! The other choice would be something called lithotripsy which is a laser type method used to break the stone up also and the small pieces would still have to be passed through urination ..... again VERY PAINFUL!
My question is NOT how to avoid getting kidney stones but whether antibiotics can get rid of them.

• ANSWER:
  My son used to have kidney stones and even had the sound procedure to break up one. He didn't like that much. Now when he has pain, he drinks Aloe Vera juice and it seems to dissolve the stones. Don't know if it works for others but it did for him. Worth a try, even tho Aloe is slimy and not very tasty.

QUESTION:
Do you think my dog is in pain?
We were told that our dog had two types of crystalls (Kidney stones to humans) One could be treated by diet (which we did) And the other surgery. Well since she hasn't had the surgery she must still have them. Do you think she's in pain because of the crystalls then?

• ANSWER:

QUESTION:
Besides pain, what risks does a large kidney stone pose?
I've began to pass some kidney stones at home, I've read up on what types of treatment and tests you might get at the doctor-often it seems like they just diagnose you and then tell you to wait it out. I don't have health insurance, and I'm seriously considering waiting it out without the help of a doctor. Besides misdiagnosis, what kinds of risks would I face if say, not all of them were able to pass?
I'm looking for answers from people with some kind of experience, no scare tactics please.

• ANSWER:
  Medical Discount Plan
  ideal for those who cannot afford or qualify for traditional health insurance. The companies offer discounted health services for a quite low monthly fee. Benefits include a range of discounts for doctors, hospitals, dental, vision, prescriptions, vitamins, as well as other health services.

  My suggestion is trying to absorb as much information as you can before making up your mind,here    www.HealthInsuranceIdeas.info    is a good one.

QUESTION:
can drinking lot of milk cause kidney stones?
hi
i am a 19 yr old bodybuilder and i don't take any protein supplements so i have to drink about 1.5 - 2.0 liters of semi skimmed milk to maintain my body.

i have been drinking this much of milk for 4 months. i use to drink whole milk i changed it to semi skim milk just few days ago.

dose drinking lot of milk harms if yes plz type em down.

and how do u find out if u have kidney stones

• ANSWER:
  kidney stones are really painful, you would know if you had them trust me

QUESTION:
I been biting and eating the skin around my nails for about 4 years now?
Im 18. And since i was 14 its just gotten worse...i bite and eat the skin around my nails...so bad i start to bleed sometimes, and you can see how chewed up they are, especially when taking a shower, its pretty disgusting. What problems could arise for me? what could happen? anything serious like kidney stones or any type of cancer?.

• ANSWER:
  You could get serious infections like the other poster just said. Also you could find that you have a very hard time getting jobs, promotions, making friends, finding dates, and otherwise fitting in socially. And if it gets bad looking enough, you can also wind up in a psychiatric ward for "self-injury."

QUESTION:
is there another pain medication for kidney stones?
besides vicodin and darvicet....vicodin makes me jittery and darvicet does nothing but make me loaded.....anything i can do to relieve the pain and what other type of medication can i ask my doctor for?

• ANSWER:
  vicodin is your best bet, take it as you are eating, it makes me jittery too, but as long as i put something in my stomach with it, it works great..........hint: dont have caffiene or sugar while you are taking it, it will make you more jittery

QUESTION:
What is the best type of calcium supplement to take?
I've heard that calcium carbonate is not that good, and that it may cause kidney stones. Is there one type that is better? I need supplements because I can not tolerate dairy products, and I'm in my 30's. Any advice would be appreciated!

• ANSWER:
  You can just drink calcium fortified soy milk or orange juice. They contain about 30% of your required daily calcium intake. It can also be found in green leafy vegetables, fortified cereals, and tofu. It is best to get it from your diet. If you do take a supplement you need 1000mg/day, but you don't want to take it all at once because your body will not absorb it all at once. If you can take 4 250mg supplements throughout the day you will probably get the most calcium absorption.

QUESTION:
sex during kidney problem?
hi
i want to ask that if someone has (boy/girl) kidney problem, like kidney pain, stone in kidney or any type of kidney problem. then in this condition he/she can do seX, whats effect?for boy or girl?

• ANSWER:
  If you have an infection of the urinary tract, then the other person could catch it possibly. Otherwise, it depends on where the stone is and how big it is whether it might get "kicked around" during sex. Mostly it depends on whether the other person feels well enough to have sex. More of a comfort level and respect for the other person who is sick issue.

QUESTION:
Calcium Oxalate?
I'm doing a school chemistry project, and I'm just wondering, how does oxalate bond with calcium in kidneys to produce kidney stones? What type of chemical bond is it?

• ANSWER:
  calcium and oxalate are both ions - the calcium is a positive ion and the oxalate is a negative - so they form an ionic compound by ionic bonding

  calcium oxalate is insoluble in water and when formed in the kidney makes kidney stones which block fluid flow through the kidney and can be very painful

QUESTION:
Kidney stones?
What are the causes of kidney stones.The person who suffers from them periodically is on several drugs for Ischaemic Heart Desease,High Blood Pressure and Diabetes type 2.
Drugs include Bezafibrate,Lisinopril,Metformin,Aspirin and Simvastatin.Could any of these be the cause.He already drinks lots of filtered water.Thank you.

• ANSWER:
  A kidney stone is a hard mass developed from crystals that separate from the urine within the urinary tract. Normally, urine contains chemicals that prevent or inhibit the crystals from forming. These inhibitors do not seem to work for everyone, however, so some people form stones. If the crystals remain tiny enough, they will travel through the urinary tract and pass out of the body in the urine without being noticed.

  Kidney stones may contain various combinations of chemicals. The most common type of stone contains calcium in combination with either oxalate or phosphate. These chemicals are part of a person’s normal diet and make up important parts of the body, such as bones and muscles.

  A less common type of stone is caused by infection in the urinary tract. This type of stone is called a struvite or infection stone. Another type of stone, uric acid stones, are a bit less common, and cystine stones are rare.

  For unknown reasons, the number of people in the United States with kidney stones has been increasing over the past 30 years. In the late 1970s, less than 4 percent of the population had stone-forming disease. By the early 1990s, the portion of the population with the disease had increased to more than 5 percent. Caucasians are more prone to develop kidney stones than African Americans. Stones occur more frequently in men. The prevalence of kidney stones rises dramatically as men enter their 40s and continues to rise into their 70s. For women, the prevalence of kidney stones peaks in their 50s. Once a person gets more than one stone, other stones are likely to develop.

  Doctors do not always know what causes a stone to form. While certain foods may promote stone formation in people who are susceptible, scientists do not believe that eating any specific food causes stones to form in people who are not susceptible.

  A person with a family history of kidney stones may be more likely to develop stones. Urinary tract infections, kidney disorders such as cystic kidney diseases, and certain metabolic disorders such as hyperparathyroidism are also linked to stone formation.

  In addition, more than 70 percent of people with a rare hereditary disease called renal tubular acidosis develop kidney stones.

  Kidney stones often do not cause any symptoms. Usually, the first symptom of a kidney stone is extreme pain, which begins suddenly when a stone moves in the urinary tract and blocks the flow of urine. Typically, a person feels a sharp, cramping pain in the back and side in the area of the kidney or in the lower abdomen. Sometimes nausea and vomiting occur. Later, pain may spread to the groin.

  If the stone is too large to pass easily, pain continues as the muscles in the wall of the narrow ureter try to squeeze the stone into the bladder. As the stone moves and the body tries to push it out, blood may appear in the urine, making the urine pink. As the stone moves down the ureter, closer to the bladder, a person may feel the need to urinate more often or feel a burning sensation during urination.

  If fever and chills accompany any of these symptoms, an infection may be present. In this case, a person should contact a doctor immediately.

  Sometimes “silent” stones—those that do not cause symptoms—are found on x rays taken during a general health exam. If the stones are small, they will often pass out of the body unnoticed. Often, kidney stones are found on an x ray or ultrasound taken of someone who complains of blood in the urine or sudden pain. These diagnostic images give the doctor valuable information about the stone’s size and location. Blood and urine tests help detect any abnormal substance that might promote stone formation.

  The doctor may decide to scan the urinary system using a special test called a computerized tomography (CT) scan or an intravenous pyelogram (IVP). The results of all these tests help determine the proper treatment.
  A person who has had more than one kidney stone may be likely to form another; so, if possible, prevention is important. To help determine their cause, the doctor will order laboratory tests, including urine and blood tests. The doctor will also ask about the patient’s medical history, occupation, and eating habits. If a stone has been removed, or if the patient has passed a stone and saved it, a stone analysis by the laboratory may help the doctor in planning treatment.

  The doctor may ask the patient to collect urine for 24 hours after a stone has passed or been removed. For a 24-hour urine collection, the patient is given a large container, which is to be refrigerated between trips to the bathroom. The collection is used to measure urine volume and levels of acidity, calcium, sodium, uric acid, oxalate, citrate, and creatinine—a product of muscle metabolism. The doctor will use this information to determine the cause of the stone. A second 24-hour urine collection may be needed to determine whether the prescribed treatment is working.

  Fortunately, surgery is not usually necessary. Most kidney stones can pass through the urinary system with plenty of water—2 to 3 quarts a day—to help move the stone along. Often, the patient can stay home during this process, drinking fluids and taking pain medication as needed. The doctor usually asks the patient to save the passed stone(s) for testing. It can be caught in a cup or tea strainer used only for this purpose.

  Lifestyle Changes
  A simple and most important lifestyle change to prevent stones is to drink more liquids—water is best. Someone who tends to form stones should try to drink enough liquids throughout the day to produce at least 2 quarts of urine in every 24-hour period.

  In the past, people who form calcium stones were told to avoid dairy products and other foods with high calcium content. Recent studies have shown that foods high in calcium, including dairy products, may help prevent calcium stones. Taking calcium in pill form, however, may increase the risk of developing stones.

  Patients may be told to avoid food with added vitamin D and certain types of antacids that have a calcium base. Someone who has highly acidic urine may need to eat less meat, fish, and poultry. These foods increase the amount of acid in the urine.

  To prevent cystine stones, a person should drink enough water each day to dilute the concentration of cystine that escapes into the urine, which may be difficult. More than a gallon of water may be needed every 24 hours, and a third of that must be drunk during the night.

  Medical Therapy
  A doctor may prescribe certain medications to help prevent calcium and uric acid stones. These medicines control the amount of acid or alkali in the urine, key factors in crystal formation. The medicine allopurinol may also be useful in some cases of hyperuricosuria.

  Doctors usually try to control hypercalciuria, and thus prevent calcium stones, by prescribing certain diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide. These medicines decrease the amount of calcium released by the kidneys into the urine by favoring calcium retention in bone. They work best when sodium intake is low.

  Rarely, patients with hypercalciuria are given the medicine sodium cellulose phosphate, which binds calcium in the intestines and prevents it from leaking into the urine.

  If cystine stones cannot be controlled by drinking more fluids, a doctor may prescribe medicines such as Thiola and Cuprimine, which help reduce the amount of cystine in the urine.

  For struvite stones that have been totally removed, the first line of prevention is to keep the urine free of bacteria that can cause infection. A patient’s urine will be tested regularly to ensure no bacteria are present.

  If struvite stones cannot be removed, a doctor may prescribe a medicine called acetohydroxamic acid (AHA). AHA is used with long-term antibiotic medicines to prevent the infection that leads to stone growth.

  People with hyperparathyroidism sometimes develop calcium stones. Treatment in these cases is usually surgery to remove the parathyroid glands, which are located in the neck. In most cases, only one of the glands is enlarged. Removing the glands cures the patient’s problem with hyperparathyroidism and kidney stones.

  Surgical Treatment
  Surgery may be needed to remove a kidney stone if it

  does not pass after a reasonable period of time and causes constant pain
  is too large to pass on its own or is caught in a difficult place
  blocks the flow of urine
  causes an ongoing urinary tract infection
  damages kidney tissue or causes constant bleeding
  has grown larger, as seen on follow-up x rays
  Until 20 years ago, open surgery was necessary to remove a stone. The surgery required a recovery time of 4 to 6 weeks. Today, treatment for these stones is greatly improved, and many options do not require major open surgery and can be performed in an outpatient setting.

  Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy
  Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is the most frequently used procedure for the treatment of kidney stones. In ESWL, shock waves that are created outside the body travel through the skin and body tissues until they hit the denser stones. The stones break down into small particles and are easily passed through the urinary tract in the urine.

  Several types of ESWL devices exist. Most devices use either x rays or ultrasound to help the surgeon pinpoint the stone during treatment. For most types of ESWL procedures, anesthesia is needed.

  In many cases, ESWL may be done on an outpatient basis. Recovery time is relatively short, and most people can resume normal activities in a few days.

  Complications may occur with ESWL. Some patients have blood in their urine for a few days after treatment. Bruising and minor discomfort in the back or abdomen from the shock waves can occur. To reduce the risk of complications, doctors usually tell patients to avoid taking aspirin and other

QUESTION:
Brain cancer and kidney stones?
My mother died at the age of 49 from a brain tumor. My sister has told me the brain surgeon who worked with my mother said her type of tumor is very common in her female off spring -- and my sister also said that those prone to kidney stones are at a much higher risk of brain cancer. I am 47 and continually have kidney stones (up to 10 a year at times) I began getting kidney stones almost 20 years ago. I also tend to get 'cysts' or benign growths in my body that have to be surgically removed. How frightened/concerned should I be? As an aside -- I never know when my sister is tellling me the truth --

• ANSWER:
  I am an ER nurse and kidney stones are a common ailment among my patients. I have Never heard the correlation between kidney stones and brain tumours. Check out MedWeb online...they have a lot of info about kidney stones. Obviously, a lot of time has passed since your mom died so probably her physician is not available to ask...but, you should make an appt. to discuss these concerns with your personal physician. Also, neurosurgery is an evolving field. What your mom's doctor may have thought to be fact back then may have been proved wrong over the years. Talk to your own doctor. Since you have had so many kidney stones I'm sure you've been seeing a urologist. He/she would know.

QUESTION:
Can kidney stones have an effect on my running?
I'm a very healthy 17 year old male, and im in shape (115 pounds) and I stay outside all the time. I've had 5 kidney stones in my right kidney total in my life, so far. I had to quit track because after one run around the track, I would vomit. It can't be food, because we wouldn't run until 3 hours after lunch, and it can't be heat because we were running in 60 to 70 degree weather. I was wondering if some type of "wear and tear" on my kidney could be the cause of me being sick after only one short run, being that I had so many in the same kidney. Could that be possible?

• ANSWER:
  my question to you is does anyone in your family suffer from kidney disease? if so, unfortunately you may be predisposed to kidney problems also. Genetics can be evil. If you have constant kidney problems, ie:stones- you really need to make sure you eat the right foods to prevent them from ever occurring. Make sure you drink water and not soda, make sure you limit protein intake along with a low sodium diet. Your ultimate goal is to take it easy on your kidneys. Avoid eating foods that stress your kidneys and they will function much more efficiently.

QUESTION:
Do I have a kidney stone? I have pain in my abdomen, and sometimes it hurts to pee.
I've had the problem for about a week or more now. I have these "attacks," where I have pain in my lower abdomen. They'll last for seconds or minutes. I've heard that can happen when you are trying to pass stones of any type. It sometimes hurts to pee, but usually it's only if I wait a little too long. That's hard to avoid, though, since I might not feel an urge until I need to.

I thought I'd mention that I was fixing up hamburger the days before it started. I've heard that too much protein can cause them, but I'm not sure. But I've been eating quite healthy for this same period, getting veggies and fruits, and other food groups. I've also been drinking water (mostly tap). I mix it with mixes, especially Hawaiian Punch.

If it also sounds like it could be a different problem, you may give that a mention.

And I'm going to be going to the doctor, but I'd like to ask around before I go. My mom thinks it's a urinary tract infection, or a kidney tract infection, or something like that. I have a feeling it's kidney stones.
I thought I'd add again that I, personally, think it's been going on for 2 weeks. If it is an infection, would waiting until Aug 19th be safe? I made an appointment at a clinic, and that's the earliest time I could get. I have no job, so should I try a regular doctor anyway?
Just thought I'd announce that I just went to the hospital Sunday because of the level of pain (I told them it was a 7). The funny thing is, it was because I had dismenarrhea (if I'm spelling it right), which is a painful period, that morning. As for the other pain I've been having, it was actually constipation. I knew I've been constipated, and have been working on it, but I guess it was still building up anyway. I might keep that appointment on the 19th. You never know, I might need it so I can try to get some good medicine for my constipation problems. But I just thought I'd let everyone know that I figured it out.

• ANSWER:
  Honestly it sounds like a kidney or bladder infection and I think your mom is right. Pain from a first attack of kidney stones is horrendous typically sends a person to the ER. You could also have a narrowing or inflammation of the tube that carries waste from your kidneys to your bladder or an inflammatory condition of your bladder that is not infection related.

QUESTION:
I'm 15 girl and i have kidney stones?
what types of foods should i stay away from i try and drink water but my back still hurts the docters cant take them out and there starting to get anoying.

• ANSWER:
  Im personally not familiar with oranges leading to kidney stones, but I cant say that for sure....

  The most common types of kindney stones are calcium stones. An over acidic diet has also been known to lead to kidney stones also.

  Get some saliva PH paper (see link below) and test your bodies PH level. The best PH level for the human body is roughly 7.4 (slightly alkaline). Im willing to bet you're on the side of acidic.

  Try to eat more raw fruits and veggies, especially most green veggies as they tend to be the highest in alkalinity. You can also drink high PH water (some have a PH of 8 to 9). Try to make 75% of your meal alkaline. A good way to do this is to have a large salad with every meal.

  Stay away from the following acidic and problematic foods: spinach, rhubarb, chocolate, peanuts, cocoa, tomato juice, grapefruit juice, apple juice, soda (acidic and contains phosphorus), all types of tea, and berries (high levels of oxalate)

  If you need more ideas just email me.

QUESTION:
What to do for bladder infections?
I'm 15 and I'm a girl. I've been getting a dull pain in my left lower back (probably kidney) and in my front lower left abdomen (probably my bladder). I'm afraid of what it could be or become. Bladder infection? Kidney disease? Kidney failure? Urinary tract infection? Kidney stones? Some type of cancer? I did some research and from what Ive found, when a young girl expieriences pains such as mine, a doctor must do a pelvic exam. I don't know how true this is but the reason I've always hated going to the doctor was because I was always afraid I'd get a pelvic exam for any visit to the doctors. So it turns out that now that I may have a serious problem, the only way to help myself is to do the thing I dread the most. Lovely. So anywho, I've been looking online, without actually being diagnosed, for cures to bladder infections and so on. I have failed but I hear alot of good things about cranberry juice and others said it wasn't going to help me at all. Reasons for which i dont want a pelvic exam are basically because im embarrassed or ill be nervous and i also dont want to answer questions like "are you sexually active?" which im not, and "do you masturbate?" which i do. I also have some small sores on the front of my vagina from shaving and I don't want the doctor to think it's something else. What do you think I might have? Should I risk the visit for an exam? Are they even going to give me a pelvic exam? Is there any way I can get rid of this problem myself?

• ANSWER:
  Yes, while you were busy doing "research" instead of going to the doctor, it's very likely that your bladder infection has spread to at least one of your kidneys. Now GO TO THE DOCTOR. There is no home remedy for a kidney infection. It's unlikely you will need a pelvic exam, and "are you sexually active" is a yes/no question which they probably won't bother about anyway. I've had more than one UTI, and I've never been asked whether I was sexually active, and I've never been asked whether I masturbate by a doctor under any circumstances.

  What is likely is that you'll be asked to answer some questions about your symptoms and to provide a urine sample. Just go, already.

QUESTION:
Is it possible to get social security disabilty for having pcos, ibs and kidney stones?
For 2 years I have not been able to even try to begin going back to work.. I just recently got on state insurance and have been able to get in to see a few different specialist. I have poly cystic ovarian disorder, which involves type 2 diabetes and ahwful cramps and mood swings..also have a kidney stone disorder where I make kidney stones very often. Also have rectal polys disorder with a chronic large laseration and protusion of my anoderm and hemrhoids. Along with Irritable bowel and possible thryroid disorder and severe foliculitis . I also have a 4 year old that has Cerebral Palsy in a mildish form....I have been so sick for the past 2 years and unable to work..Could I get some help thru social security?? Please help and if I can apply how?

• ANSWER:
  It may be possible to get disability thru Social Security. You can try to apply online for the disability. Here's the link to the Social Security website: http://www.socialsecurity.gov

  Click on the section that says, "Disability".

QUESTION:
The pain after Kidney Stone Surgery?
I had kidney stone so i had Laser treatment and the doctor put stent. Then on Tuesday I removed the stent and came back home. But I didnt feel any pain on my right kidney at the day I came home and next day but after 2 days have passed, the pain all of a sudden have occured on a break of a day. Since then the pain occurs somewhere from 1am to 4am and when i wake up next day in the morning, I strange feel nothing at all. But then it occurs again. Is this normal? or are there any treatment that i can try to get rid of the pain? Please Help me guys...I've never been so desperate in my life

• ANSWER:
  A pain which is occurring after a pain free period can be due to an infection setting in. So I would like to suggest that you should consult your surgeon if pain keeps on rising. but do not get panic. A urinary tract infection can easily be cured with antibiotics.

QUESTION:
What next, please help me find an answer?
I am a ten year breast cancer survivor; stage I, 1.7cm, no lymph node involvement, estrogen positive to me; I had as treatment 17 CMF chemotherapy, 45 Neupogen shots, 30 radiation treatments and a quadrantectomy. My balance seemed to be off during my second chemo treatment. I told my doctor, I fell often. And in 2001 I fell down stairs, broke a tib/fib, titanium rods implanted and ended up with DVT. I have been walking with a cane since then.Last year was treated for an ear infection, serous otitis media, At the emergency room the doctor said I had bubbles on my eardrum. I was admitted to the hospital, and isolated. One doctor came in and said I had MRSA. I didn't know what that was. I was treated with many antibiotics and the only one that worked was oxacillin. I was discharged after three days. Afterwards, everything changed. I had two failed 17 year old root canals, numerous antibiotics, kidney stone,more antibiotics, ear doctor treated with more antibiotics, saw a neurologist, said I have cerebellar ataxia. Another said I didn';t. One neurologist said I had fear of falling. One said it was peripheral neuropathy. One said it was PTSD. I was thankful last year to hear that I did not have a neuro-degenerative disease. I left the state to celebrate, with my walker, my cane and a change of clothes. The third day, I fell off a foot high porch and broke the calcaneous bone and did a 2+ sprain on the left ankle. I returned back to my home with the goal of relearning to walk. However, I again became more imbalanced, my right eye started twitching and wouldn't stop. The eye doctor today tells me it is convergence. The eye doctor last year, told me nystagmus. I call it my scarry eye and continue to do vestibular therapy. Two months ago, I went on another journey to try and save my life and the quality of my life. A neurosurgeon told me, I have never seen that part of the brain completely gone. You need to go to a stroke center. Another doctor told me I might have a connective tissue disease. I tested positive for anti nuclear AB. Yes, I do have arthiritis. If I have something else I don't know. Last month I made an appt. with a gastroenterologist, because of unusual bloating and unable to urinate completely. No pain at this point. A week later I end up in the Emergency Room: told you have a 2mm kidney stone; it is in the ureter and should pass into the bladder, you should see a doctor in three days. I saw a urologist, CT scan of abdomen and pelvis. He said maybe you will pass it, if not we will do a lithotripsy and place a stent. By the end of the week I ended up in the ER again. I was admitted. The 2 mm stone now was 5.8 mm and in the ureter. I was given pain meds and stayed in the hospital so my 80 year old mother didn't have to witness me birthing a stone, Everrbody said it was nothing. I tell you it was painful. Before I was discharged from the hospital, the doctor told me a CT scan revealed it was in my bladder. That all should be okay. I have strained urine, looking for a stone, The urologist says the stone is still in the ureter, and the radiologist read the report wrong. Today, a doctor says, good news, no blood in the urine, Today, I still have problems with bloating and voiding fully. I already have problems with vestibular dysfunction and I believe that this is compromising my life. Symptoms: can't walk or stand for very long, can't walk forward without holding on. I do well in a swimming pool but sometimes, even it can be difficult. Is it the ear? IS it another disease? I am exhausted and need help? My eyes have a hard time focussing. I try to exercise, stationary bike and swimming every other day. I used to be a very active person who helped others. Please, someone help me. It is difficult being in this body.Every day I don't know what it will be like when I get up, good or bad, confident or fright.

• ANSWER:
  I have a bad back too.

QUESTION:
Uretroscopy was done could not remove stone from ureter.....!!!! Postoperative Problems as well!!!?
2 years ago doctor detected a calculus in right kidney when i complaint acute pain in my kidney and back. since then i did not feel any pain at all.

1 month ago i went to doctor then he says that stone is creating obstruction in the flow of urine from kidney to bladder.

BEFORE URETEROSCOPY

Stone size is measured in IVP about 0.5cm x 0.7cm
Left kidney is working normally no obstruction and no stone over there.
Right kidney is also working properly but shows some swollen(enlargement) due to obstruction created by stone.

AFTER URETEROSCOPY

Stone has migrated into the kidney before doctor could try to treat it with laser.
Now they are planning for ESWL.
A DJ Stent has been placed in me to avoid some complications.
however blood comes out with urine whenever i drink less amount of water....!!!!
doctor prescribed some antibiotics and now i have taken all of it.
A tablet Flotral will go for 15 days(9 days remaining).

I would like to ask that what should i do now, will this stone pass through urine automatically or not???

My experience about spinal anesthesia was not so good because it was so painful, i dont want to go for another surgery.

Does ESWL requires spinal anesthesia???

Can i start ayurvedic medicine for the treatment for this????

Thanks to all...!!!

From

Rahul Sharma

• ANSWER:
  Very typical story. Stones can be tricky, and if they cannot be removed from the ureter, they are usually pushed up into the kidney. ESWL will turn the stone into sand, and it will then pass easily.

  ESWL is usually done under deep sedation or general anesthesia, because it is important that you do not move once they focus the sound waves on the stone. Afterward, you will be sore for a few days.

  It is important that you have the stone treated before it gets bigger. Good luck!

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QUESTION:
Can you dissolve kidney stones (at home)? If yes, how?
I know that there are different types of kidney stones (calcium, uric acid, etc.) but if they are able to dissolved, can they be dissolved the same way or do you need different treatments for different stones?

• ANSWER:
  Actually it can work but that depends on the size of the stone. But it is worth trying. I prefer you see this:
  http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/kidney_stones3.html#RF_41209

  Post your questions in:
  http://med50.blogspot.com/2010/04/patient-education-program.html

QUESTION:
Can you dissolve kidney stones? If yes, how?
I know that there are different types of kidney stones (calcium, uric acid, etc.) but if they are able to dissolved, can they be dissolved the same way or do you need different treatments for different stones?

• ANSWER:
  I know you can break them using laser removal. But that's all I know

QUESTION:
chronic kidney stone problems?
for the past year ive had a few small kidney stones made up of uric acid in my kidneys and they cause pain quite frequently and there is always microscopic blood in my urine. like i think there is a stone permanently stuck in one of those tubes (whatever they are called) or in a bad place in a kidney. im really worried this will cause cancer eventually or something. ive had so many tests but tests and treatments arent good for uric acid stones. any advice please? will this cause cancer? thanks

• ANSWER:
  I hope that you are seeing a urologist! If you have a painful stone stuck your doc might try an ultra sound method to break down the stone.

  Those kidney stones are one of the most painful things on the plante to experience. Both myself and my boys have had them. One thing we have in common is not drinking water or enough water. My oldest son has water with him all of the time he never wants another kidney stone in his life.

  Try drinking purified water. Purified is important. You might have well water where you live that contributes to your stones.
  Don't just buy any bottle water. Some are straight out of a pipe or a tap somewhere not so desirable. Make sure it is purified.

  I have never heard of stones causing cancer. Too many stones can really compermise the health and effectivness of your urinary system.

  http://www.ehealthmd.com/library/kidneystones/KS_prevention.html check out this site. It will give you information. Important to learn how to eat to prevent the buildup of the stones. And bottom line.........water water water water.

QUESTION:
Is it bad if your kidney bleeds everyday for over a year?
I have small kidney stones in my right kidney and for over the past year every time ive urinated there have been miscroscopic amounts of blood in it. My kidney is in pain quite often as well. I'd like to know if this can cause kidney cancer? My kidney stones are made up of uric acid and there is no hope of treatment for them. thanks

• ANSWER:
  yes, it is.

QUESTION:
My Uric Acid is on the higher side and have taken zyloric. Is there any side effect for taking long time.?
I have got checked and found my Uric Acid is at 6.5. My age is 64 years. I have taken zyloric for two months and now stopped. If I take more will it give any side-effect. Besides this I am also taking Homoe. medicinem Ledum Palustre 30, two drops in water early in the morning. Will it help. Besides this my prostrate gland is also little enlarged and I am taking Dutage, Lycoprost SP after breakfast and Contiflo OD 0.4mg in the night. This medicine is also being taken by me for the last two months. I also have kidney stone 4 mm and 5 mm. Besides this I am also taking Homoe medicineBerb. Vul. Q-10 drops in the morning and 10 drops in the evening, One tablet Calc. Renalis 3X - one in the morning, one afternoon and one night. Will this treatment help me. How long should I take these medicine. Any side effect of these medicines. Recently I noticed that semen (ejaculation) does not come outside, but remains inside though other functions are normal. Is it the effect of the medicine.

• ANSWER:
  There are very good effective remedy in ayurveda. For uric acid, take Rasna Ghana 1-0-1 for six months. for kidney stones, take Stonvil capsules 1-0-1 for six months. It would be better if you consult an ayurveda doctor. Where are you located?

QUESTION:
Can you dissolve kidney stones (at home)? If yes, how?
I know that there are different types of kidney stones (calcium, uric acid, etc.) but if they are able to dissolved, can they be dissolved the same way or do you need different treatments for different stones?

• ANSWER:
  Considering how you don't have direct access to your kidneys (everything gets filtered at some point), no this is not a DIY operation you should try at home.

QUESTION:
Is it bad if your kidney bleeds everyday for over a year?
I have small kidney stones in my right kidney and for over the past year every time ive urinated there have been miscroscopic amounts of blood in it. My kidney is in pain quite often as well. I'd like to know if this can cause kidney cancer? My kidney stones are made up of uric acid and there is no hope of treatment for them. thanks

• ANSWER:
  yes, it is bad.

QUESTION:
My Uric Acid is on the higher side and have taken zyloric. Is there any side effect for taking long time.?
I have got checked and found my Uric Acid is at 6.5. My age is 64 years. I have taken zyloric for two months and now stopped. If I take more will it give any side-effect. Besides this I am also taking Homoe. medicine Ledum Palustre 30, two drops in water early in the morning. Will it help. Besides this my prostrate gland is also little enlarged and I am taking Dutagen, Lycoprost SP after breakfast and Contiflo OD 0.4mg in the night. This medicine is also being taken by me for the last two months. I also have kidney stone 4 mm and 5 mm. Besides this I am also taking Homoe medicineBerb. Vul. Q-10 drops in the morning and 10 drops in the evening, One tablet Calc. Renalis 3X - one in the morning, one afternoon and one night. Will this treatment help me. How long should I take these medicine. Any side effect of these medicines. Recently I noticed that semen (ejaculation) does not come outside, but remains inside though other functions are normal. Is it the effect of the medicine.

• ANSWER:
  zyloric has to be taken life long and has almost no side effects. the ejaculation problem is unrelated to zyloric or to hyperurecemia.

QUESTION:
treatment of stones during pregnancy?
I am 29 weeks and 2 days. I was experiencing blood in my urine and the doctors could not find any infection in my urinary tract system. I have horrible pain coming from the left side of my back and they are assuming its a stone. What is the treatment for pregnant women and kidney stones?

• ANSWER:
  I had a kidney stone at about 4 months during my pregnancy. There's not a whole lot they can do for you to intervene like they usually would when you normally have a kidney stone. They can give you an iv to help push the stone through and there are some pain killers that are ok to take during pregnancy to get you through the back pain (your dr will be able to tell you which ones). Usually a stone will pass in just a few days. In my case I was in periodic pain for about two months and I have heard of cases where it took longer. The uterus is really pushing down on the ureter and bladder which can make the stone harder to pass. If you are really really in a lot of pain for a long time they can attempt to either place a stent (keeping the urine going around the stone) or try to physically retrieve it. Both the high risk OB and the urologist I was referred to advised against it if at all possible saying that it would likely be more painful than the stone itself. I read stories from pregnant women (with kidney stones and stents) online that seemed to confirm this.
  What I was told that I could do and things that helped:
  -Drink 12-16 glasses of water a day (this is the most important thing you can do, it's the best researched and supported solution to stones no matter what)
  -Add a little bit of citrate to your diet (real lemon juice)
  -Make sure you're getting enough real calcium, not from supplements. There is some evidence that a calcium supplement can actually increase your chance of making a stone.
  -Watch your oxalate intake. This is the most updated and reliable list I've been able to find.
  http://www.ohf.org/docs/Oxalate2008.pdf
  -Heat packs or a hot shower can greatly reduce the pain in your back.
  -Strain your urine so you can save the stone if you pass it.
  -Get a little bit of exercise every day if possible. There is evidence that too sedentary of a lifestyle can contribute to stone formation.
  Good Luck!

QUESTION:
I need verification from someone who knows about diabetes and kidney failure...?
So this is for a story that I'm writing. I want to make sure that all of my facts are right, here. I know absolutely nothing about medicine or medical terminology. I've tried to research some stuff that would fit with my storyline, and I've got a little bit, but I would love confirmation that what I've got is right. And I know that there are some serious gaps that need to be filled in to make it correct.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
One of my characters (a woman in her early 40's) has diabetes. She may have experienced some of the symptoms but it overall unaware of her condition.
She faints and is unconscious for an unusual amount of time. She is taken to the hospital where she is informed that she has kidney failure, a complication from her diabetes.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Alright, that's all I've got. What I need to know is if this is plausible. Also, if there's anything else that you can tell me about specifics that will add authenticity to the story, that would be great. (ie symptoms, treatments, etc.)

AND at the moment, I am planning on killing her off because of the kidney failure. I need to know how long it would take and how it would occur as well as the treatments she would undergo, the type of costs attached, and the decisions that she would need to make concerning such treatments.

Her death, however, is not set in stone so I would also like to be aware of the chances of death and the following treatment and rehabilitation process if she were to survive.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thanks a ton!
~AnA~

• ANSWER:

QUESTION:
please help, what can painful urination for males mean?
please be kind and be serious...my boyfriend has been in serious pain when he goes to the bathroom. he never feels like he has to go till a few seconds before, and then runs to the bathroom in distance. also it hurts him after 'play time'.

i tried calling planned parenthood to set up an appointment for him thinking it was a bladder infection, but the woman who answered said that its impossible for males. not just that, but its a serious problem and he should be rushed to hospital immediately. she suggested kidney stones may be the problem...

first off, what are your opinions of what the problem may be, and how can it be treated? if you think it may be kidney stones, please explain to me how they form and how they can be treated (please please please dont say surgery -_- ....)

second...we both cant trust our parents with this all so were going as just us. prob is, idk how we can pay for whatever treatment he gets at hospital. we probably wont be able to use his insurance casue hed have to ask his mom for his id. could the hospital hook him up with insurance without the id if he already has a hospital record there? if not, how much would u estimate that we would have to pay for the hospital bill for w/e is the problem
thank u
-_- and no...his parents wont address the problem, hence why its just us going. his mom wouldnt bring him unless he was passed out on the floor....multiple times

• ANSWER:
  Have him talk to his parents, and have them set an appointment up at his doctors. All he needs to tell them is that he is having severe pains when he urinates. He can speak to the doctors in confidence, and they can help him talk to his parents about anything you might think will offend them. Doctors are professionals and have seen almost everything, they will know what to do. But, if you wait, your boyfriend could end up seriously injured. But, you will have to pay no matter where you go, so just let his parents get him the appointment and he can deal with it from there. That is what is best.

QUESTION:
have you had IUD Problems?
I am a 22 year old woman that has chosen to wait to have children, I have been on birth control since I was ten years old, mostly because my period would be to overbearing and my doctor suggested a light hormonal treatment. I had the ParaGuard inserted about a year ago, the first time my body expelled it. My doctor also strongly recommended this method (ParaGuard) because I had a lump on my breast and she didn’t want to risk breast cancer… Since then I’ve noticed dramatic changes in my body: the lump has disappeared and my periods are a new problem. My periods last now anywhere from 5 days to an unbearable 14. To make matters worse, I have a 23 day cycle instead of a normal 28 days; therefore I only get a week off. The cramps have slowly reached the pinnacle, they take over me: I take Ibuprofen, muscle relaxers, Tylenol, Pills that should take care of menstrual relief. But nothing works… I’ve had kidney stones before, and at times I’m confused if it’s a kidney stone or just cramps; that’s the only way to explain my cramps. This last cycle has complexly thrown me off, it’s no longer just cramps, it’s ridiculous mood swings too: I was out on a date with my BF of 2 years, and for no apparent reason I started crying, I retreated back to my house to have a crazy crying fest, (things are tough, but never to the point where I’m crying about it). I’ve had insane heat flashes, one moment I’m under the covers the next I’m standing outside in 35 degree weather trying to lower my temperature. Since then I suffer from insomnia, feeling like my body never really rests. My question is: has anyone had these problems at the severity that I am at? If so was it a hormonal issue? Could it be possible that my body needs the steady flow of extra hormones lapse through my body? Please help.

• ANSWER:

QUESTION:
Are these funny?Yes/No?
FORGIVE OUR ENEMIES

In his Sunday sermon, the minister used "Forgive Your Enemies" as his subject. After the sermon, he asked how many were willing to forgive their enemies. About half held up their hands.

Not satisfied, he harangued the congregation for another twenty minutes and repeated his question. This received a response of eighty percent. Still unsatisfied, he lectured for fifteen more minutes and repeated his question. All responded except one elderly gentleman in the rear.

"Mr. Jones, are you not willing to forgive your enemies?" "I don't have any." "Mr. Jones, that is very unusual. How old are you?" "One Hundred and one". "Mr. Jones, please come down in front and tell the congregation how a man can live to be one hundred and one and not have an enemy in the world."

The old man teetered down the aisle, slowly turned to face the congregation, smiled and said, "I outlived every one of them!"
*************************************************
DIAGNOSIS

Early one morning, my husband, who works in a funeral home, woke me, complaining of severe abdominal pains. We rushed to the emergency room, where tests were performed to determine the source of the pain.

My husband decided not to have me call in sick for him until we knew what was wrong. When the results came back, the nurse informed us that, true to our suspicions, he was suffering from a kidney stone.

I turned to my husband and asked, "Would you like me to call the funeral home now?"

With a scornful look, the nurse turned to me and snapped, "Honey, he's not THAT sick!"
*************************************************
EXPENSIVE DOCTORS

A young woman wasn't feeling well, and asked one of her co-workers to recommend a physician.

"I know a great one in the city, but he is very expensive. Five hundred dollars for the first visit, and one hundred dollars for each one after that."

The woman went to the doctor's office and, trying to save a little money, cheerily announced.

"I'm back!"

Not fooled for a second, the doctor quickly examined her and said, "Very good, just continue the treatment I prescribed on your last visit." *************************************************
GET BACK IN THERE!

Working as a secretary at an international airport, my sister had an office adjacent to where security temporarily holds suspects.

One day security officers were questioning a man when they were suddenly called away on another emergency. To the horror of my sister and her colleagues, the man was left alone in the unlocked room. After a few mminutes, the door opened, and he began to walk out. Summoning up her courage, one of the secretaries barked, "Get back in there, and don't come out until you're told!"

The man scuttled back inside and slammed the door. When the security people returned, the woman reported what had happened.

Without a word, an officer walked into the room and released one very frightened telephone repairman.

• ANSWER:
  yes it is haha.

QUESTION:
Are these funny?Yes/No?
FORGIVE OUR ENEMIES

In his Sunday sermon, the minister used Forgive Your Enemies as his subject. After the sermon, he asked how many were willing to forgive their enemies. About half held up their hands.

Not satisfied, he harangued the congregation for another twenty minutes and repeated his question. This received a response of eighty percent. Still unsatisfied, he lectured for fifteen more minutes and repeated his question. All responded except one elderly gentleman in the rear.

Mr. Jones, are you not willing to forgive your enemies? I don't have any. Mr. Jones, that is very unusual. How old are you? One Hundred and one. Mr. Jones, please come down in front and tell the congregation how a man can live to be one hundred and one and not have an enemy in the world.

The old man teetered down the aisle, slowly turned to face the congregation, smiled and said, I outlived every one of them!
**************************************…
DIAGNOSIS

Early one morning, my husband, who works in a funeral home, woke me, complaining of severe abdominal pains. We rushed to the emergency room, where tests were performed to determine the source of the pain.

My husband decided not to have me call in sick for him until we knew what was wrong. When the results came back, the nurse informed us that, true to our suspicions, he was suffering from a kidney stone.

I turned to my husband and asked, Would you like me to call the funeral home now?

With a scornful look, the nurse turned to me and snapped, Honey, he's not THAT sick!
**************************************…
EXPENSIVE DOCTORS

A young woman wasn't feeling well, and asked one of her co-workers to recommend a physician.

I know a great one in the city, but he is very expensive. Five hundred dollars for the first visit, and one hundred dollars for each one after that.

The woman went to the doctor's office and, trying to save a little money, cheerily announced.

I'm back!

Not fooled for a second, the doctor quickly examined her and said, Very good, just continue the treatment I prescribed on your last visit. ****************************************…
GET BACK IN THERE!

Working as a secretary at an international airport, my sister had an office adjacent to where security temporarily holds suspects.

One day security officers were questioning a man when they were suddenly called away on another emergency. To the horror of my sister and her colleagues, the man was left alone in the unlocked room. After a few mminutes, the door opened, and he began to walk out. Summoning up her courage, one of the secretaries barked, Get back in there, and don't come out until you're told!

The man scuttled back inside and slammed the door. When the security people returned, the woman reported what had happened.

Without a word, an officer walked into the room and released one very frightened telephone repairman.

• ANSWER:
  somewhat funny...but needs improvement

QUESTION:
Does anyone know any good and safe natural home remedies for Kidney Stones?
I get Kidney Stones. I'm a 24 year old female. My first stone was when I was 18 years old. I believe in the left kidney, if I am remembering correctly. If anyone reading this has ever had them, then you know they're excruciating! At that time, I had insurance (I live in the state of PA so I was covered under some PA insurance for children called CHIP.) so, I went to the local ER. Determined I had one small stone. It was a couple millimeters. They said to drink TONS of water and try to catch it, and gave me Percocet for the pain. I ended up passing the stone after about 2 days. But, was unable to catch it, so I don't know what causes my stones. I currently have no health insurance and no money to pay for doctors and such, and visits to the ER are very expensive here.

Back in December I got the same pain I get from a Kidney Stone in my right kidney. Went to the ER, they didn't do much for me, since I have no way to pay. They give you very minimal treatment if you can't pay. They basically just gave me a prescription for Vicodin and 800mg of Ibuprofen tablets. I had pain off and on for about a week, eventually, it just stopped. I never did pass the stone though, I'm sure of that. Then about a week ago, I started getting really bad pain in my left kidney. So, I guess I have a new stone in there. I had some Vicodin left from December. But, I used all that. Now all I have is the Ibuprofen. It doesn't really work. I should go to the ER when I get pain again, but I am tired of racking up huge bills that I can't pay. Not to mention, they usually just give Vicodin for the pain (which no longer works on me) and if I ask for something else it might just look like I only want the drugs. So, I'm trying not to go to the ER unless I really have to. Thankfully, today has been pain free. I hope it stays that way. But, I'm sure I didn't pass the stone. As far as I know, I have at least one in each kidney.

So, what I am wondering, does anyone know any real (and SAFE) natural remedies that can help break up/dissolve kidney stones? I've been reading up online about all this stuff, I read that Apple Cider Vinegar mixed with some warm water is supposed to help certain kinds of kidney stones. I don't know what mine are from though or if the ACV solution will help. But, I started trying it last night. I also read Lemon Juice with Olive Oil helps, but there is no way I am trying that one. That sounds horrible. I am just barely managing the ACV. I also read Lemon Juice with water helps. I might be able to try that one. They're the only ones I know though.

So, please, if anyone knows any other safe, natural home remedies I can try that would help break up/dissolve my stones, that'd be great. Also, for those familiar with the remedies I already mentioned, does anyone know if they're good for all kinds of kidney stones? Or, only certain kinds? And, which kinds are these remedies good for? Sorry for this being so long and informational, I just wanted to be as specific as possible about my history in case it helps. I'm just desperate to try to get rid of these stones and get some relief. Please, honest and thoughtful answers only!

• ANSWER:
  You need water therapy and fresh juices. You can try grapes and apples blended. No Sugar. Drink a lot of juices and water. Get well soon!

QUESTION:
have you had IUD Problems?
I am a 22 year old woman that has chosen to wait to have children, I have been on birth control since I was ten years old, mostly because my period would be to overbearing and my doctor suggested a light hormonal treatment. I had the ParaGuard inserted about a year ago, the first time my body expelled it. My doctor also strongly recommended this method (ParaGuard) because I had a lump on my breast and she didn’t want to risk breast cancer… Since then I’ve noticed dramatic changes in my body: the lump has disappeared and my periods are a new problem. My periods last now anywhere from 5 days to an unbearable 14. To make matters worse, I have a 23 day cycle instead of a normal 28 days; therefore I only get a week off. The cramps have slowly reached the pinnacle, they take over me: I take Ibuprofen, muscle relaxers, Tylenol, Pills that should take care of menstrual relief. But nothing works… I’ve had kidney stones before, and at times I’m confused if it’s a kidney stone or just cramps; that’s the only way to explain my cramps. This last cycle has complexly thrown me off, it’s no longer just cramps, it’s ridiculous mood swings too: I was out on a date with my BF of 2 years, and for no apparent reason I started crying, I retreated back to my house to have a crazy crying fest, (things are tough, but never to the point where I’m crying about it). I’ve had insane heat flashes, one moment I’m under the covers the next I’m standing outside in 35 degree weather trying to lower my temperature. Since then I suffer from insomnia, feeling like my body never really rests. My question is: has anyone had these problems at the severity that I am at? If so was it a hormonal issue? Could it be possible that my body needs the steady flow of extra hormones lapse through my body? Please help.

• ANSWER: