Simple Remedies

Category: Home Remedies

  • What Is Pectus Excavatum? Symptoms And Natural Home Remedies

    Pectus excavatum is characterized by a breastbone that is sunken in to the chest. In extreme cases, it looks as if the center of the chest has been lifted out, leaving a deep indentation.

    Severity of pectus excavatum usually increases during the adolescent growth spurt. The condition is commoner in boys than girls. Severe cases tend to hamper the functioning of the lungs and heart. Mild cases make children feel very embarrassed about their appearance. Surgery helps rectify the misshapenness.

    The precise cause of pectus excavatum is yet not known, however, experts say that it is an inherited disorder; given that, it occasionally runs in families.

    Signs And Symptoms Of Pectus Excavatum

    For most people diagnosed with pectus excavatum, the only symptom or presenting feature may be an indentation in the chest. The indentation tends to worsen during early adolescence and may continue to aggravate in to adulthood.

    In severe cases, the breastbone may press on to the lungs and heart, thereby, affecting their functioning. Manifestations in such cases include:

    • Reduced exercise tolerance and capacity.
    • Palpitations and rapid heartbeat.
    • Frequent and recurring respiratory tract infections.
    • Pain in the chest
    • Wheezing and coughing
    • Heart murmur
    • Exhaustion and lassitude

    Natural Remedies For Pectus Excavatum

    People who undertake surgery are pleased with the change in how the chest looks, no matter which procedure is used.

    Optimal results can be attained when the surgery is carried out around the adolescent growth spurt, on the other hand, adults have also significantly benefitted from pectus excavatum repair surgery.

    Those who aren’t interested in going in for or do not need surgical intervention, can manage the symptoms associated with pectus excavatum using these simple home remedies:

    • Pectus excavatum can be surgically remedied, however, surgical intervention is, by and large advised for those having moderate to severe clinical features of the condition. Mild cases are successfully managed by physical therapy. Physiotherapy improves posture and increases the degree to which the chest can expand, thus preventing chest pain and recurring infections.
    • Ginger and turmeric: It helps to treat and prevent frequent chest infections. Blend 1 spoon of powdered turmeric with 2 spoons of dried and powdered ginger root. Add a generous amount of honey. Consume this mix daily, once or twice. This helps ward off as well as control respiratory infections and makes sure you do not need to consume too much of allopathic drugs.
    • Dates: Have 4 to 5 dates daily; it helps boost tolerance levels appreciably and helps to effectively battle fatigue and exhaustion. Incorporate dates in to your everyday routine.
    • Berry smoothie: Start your day with a berry smoothie to stay energetic all day long. Berries are energy storehouses and supply you with a burst of energy and vitality. Blend together a cup of strawberries, half a cup of black berries, 1 orange and 1 lime. Have this blend every morning. It combats exhaustion and tiredness wonderfully.
    • Pranayama: It helps you to improve your lung capacity considerably and helps avert wheezing and chest pains too. Experts recommend ‘the equal breath’, ‘alternate nostril breathing’ and ‘the humming bee’ as the most effective and excellent breathing techniques to handle respiratory complaints related to pectus excavatum.
    • Homeopathy drugs such as Cactus, Arnica and Alfalfa help one deal with heart murmurs and palpitations exceedingly well.

  • Valley Fever Symptoms In Humans And Its Natural Home Remedies

    Valley fever is a fungal infection that is caused by coccidioides organisms. Mild cases, by and large, subside on their own without any treatment regimen. In more severe cases, the doctor prescribes anti-fungal drugs to treat the infection. Common manifestations are chest pain, fever, cough, breathlessness and difficulty while breathing.

    The coccidioides species of fungi are commonly found in the soil of certain areas. Anything that disturbs the soil, such as construction, farming, or wind, makes these fungi enter the atmosphere. Consequently, when you breathe, you take in the fungi, which then enter the lungs. Valley fever usually begins as an acute infection; however, it can develop into a more serious disease, including chronic and disseminated coccidioidomycosis.

    Coccidioides immitis or Coccidioides posadasii are the causative fungi; they flourish in alkaline desert soils of Nevada, southern Arizona, northern Mexico and California’s San Joaquin Valley. In the soil, the fungi grow as mold, having long filaments that break into air-borne spores when the soil gets disturbed. The spores are tiny, and can travel hundreds of miles by the wind. They are very contagious. When inhaled in to the lungs, the spores reproduce, completing the disease cycle.

    Symptoms Of Valley Fever

    Acute valley fever.

    Acute coccidioidomycosis is usually mild, with very few symptoms. Clinical features develop 1 to 3 weeks after exposure.

    • Fever with chills.
    • Chest pain.
    • Cough.
    • Night sweats.
    • Headache.
    • Exhaustion.
    • Breathlessness.
    • Rash; red, painful bumps form, they turn brown later on.
    • Joint pains.

    Chronic valley fever.

    In case coccidioidomycosis doesn’t resolve completely, it may progress in to a chronic form. This occurs in diabetics or those who have a weak immune system.

    • Low grade fever.
    • Cough with bloody sputum.
    • Chest pain.
    • Nodules in the lungs.
    • Weight loss.

    Home Remedies For Valley Fever

    • Rest is the main aspect of the treatment. Most people do not need any treatment. However, careful monitoring is a must.
    • If your symptoms do not improve; or they aggravate, or if you are going to develop complications, your doctor will prescribe anti-fungal drugs. These medications control the fungal infection, but sometimes do not completely obliterate them, and relapses are known to occur.
    • Consuming plenty of fluids is very essential. Supportive treatment is crucial for speedy and quick recovery from valley fever.
    • Supplement your diet with protein: soy milk, milk, yogurt, barley water, etc are good options. Protein boosts the working of the immune system and helps fight the fungus better.
    • Turmeric is an excellent anti fungal. Add 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder to a glass of boiling water; and have this thrice daily. Curcumin found in turmeric helps battle the fungus effectively.
    • Step up our intake of vitamin C. you may have a supplement; or plenty of vitamin C rich foods such as: limes, lemons, oranges, sweet limes, mangoes, papayas, etc.
    • Herb Echinacea is another potent infection fighter, take a capsule, twice daily for 15 days; it will hasten recovery and accelerate infection fighting.
    • A holy basil tea is also recommended. Boil 5 to 10 leaves of the holy basil in a cup of water; add a spoon of honey and consume. This decoction helps bring down the fever and eliminates the fungal infection with great effectiveness.

  • Diet for Jock Itch Skin Infection | Foods to Avoid Jock Itch Problem

    Jock Itch Diet Treatment:

    When you are trying to treat jock itch or are trying to prevent it, there are some types of food that you should avoid to keep the growth of fungi down and the infection from worsening or even happening. Here are some suggestions you might want to try:

    • Garlic is a very good herbal remedy for fungal infections; therefore, increasing your intake of this herb will help give you the kind of protection or remedy you need for these fungal problems.
    • Food that contains yeast, are sugary, and foods that can be called refined carbohydrates should be avoided at all costs. Other foods that you should avoid include fried foods, greasy foods and processed foods.
    • A healthy diet that consists of fresh vegetables and fruits is also essential to the prevention as well as healing of this problem. Green leafy vegetables are always good for a person’s body and should be incorporated in your diet every day.
    • Alcoholic drinks should also be omitted from your diet since it can be converted into sugar that the fungi can feed on. Alcohol also slows down the healing process and may make your rashes and itch last longer than they should.

  • What Causes Typhus Fever? Symptoms And Treatment Of Typhus Disease

    Typhus is a serious infectious disease that is caused by the Rickettsia bacteria. Typhus originates from typhos which means ‘hazy or smoky’, and describes the state of mind of the individual who is afflicted with typhus. Rickettsia cannot survive for a prolonged period of time outside living cells. Most importantly, typhus must not be confused with typhoid, the two are unrelated.

    The 2 commonly seen typhus illnesses are louse borne and murine. The two are caused by 2 diverse bacteria; however, they are clinically rather analogous, and share certain characteristic symptoms of high fever and rash.

    Murine typhus fever is a relatively milder version than the louse borne fever.  Epidemic typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia prowazekii; whilst, Murine typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia typhi.

    Characteristically, outbreaks occur in filthy, unclean conditions where people hardly ever change clothes or bathe. The typhus bacteria attack the cells that line the blood vessels in your body. By and large, 7 days after an infectious louse bite, the illness commences.
    Murine typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia typhi; and it spreads to humans by rat fleas. Murine pertains to the scientific name of the animal group that includes mice and rats.

    Murine typhus fever is a gentler disease than the louse borne typhus. About 1 to 2 weeks after the initial flea bite, the symptoms become evident.

    Symptoms Of Epidemic And Murine Typhus Fever

    Symptoms of the 2 types of typhus fever are somewhat same; however, here are the typical features of each:

    Epidemic typhus:

    • High grade fever with chills.
    • Delirium.
    • Headache.
    • Backache.
    • Bad cough.
    • Joint and bone pains and severe muscle pain.
    • Rashes.
    • Drop in the blood pressure.
    • Extreme sensitivity to light.

    Murine typhus:

    • Pain in the abdomen.
    • Backache.
    • Rashes.
    • Headache.
    • High grade fever.
    • Dry cough.
    • Joint and bone pains.
    • Nausea and vomiting.

    Treatment For Typhus Disease

    • If left untreated; or any kind of neglect occurs, the disease can prove to be fatal. Timely treatment with antibiotics is very essential. Hospitalization may or may not be required. Commonly prescribed antibiotics are: tetracycline, doxycycline, azithromycin and chloramphenicol.
    • Alongside, the doctor will ensure that you get good supportive treatment in order to hasten recovery and promote healing.
    • It is very vital that you stay well hydrated; drink plenty of water and fluids. Soups, broths, juices and herbal teas are a must. In severe cases, the patient may need to be put on to IV fluids to keep the water-electrolyte balance.
    • Nausea, vomiting and blood pressure need to be managed effectively. Suck on ice chips and have ginger tea frequently through the day. Ginger will help allay most GI discomfort and treat nausea and vomiting efficiently.
    • Pain killers and anti-emetics may be necessary in extreme cases.
    • Echinacea tea has proved to be rather beneficial. It is an immune booster and helps handle the infection better. Echinacea is a powerful anti bacterial and consuming Echinacea tea or having a supplement daily will yield good results. However, do confer with your doctor before staring a supplement.

  • Hereditary Angioedema: Its Causes, Symptoms And Natural Treatment

    Hereditary angioedema also referred to as the Quincke’s disease, is a relatively rare condition resulting in altered immune system, which is passed from generation to generation. Since the condition is linked with a genetic defect, currently there is no cure for this condition. The condition is caused due to improper functioning or low levels of a protein – C1 esterase inhibitor, which results in repeated attacks of edema throughout the body.

    Current treatment therapies include use of attenuated androgens, antifibronolytic agents and C1 esterase inhibitor replacement therapy, however most of these treatment regimens have limited efficacy. As genetic science advances, there is hope for people affected with this condition.

    Causes Of Hereditary Angioedema

    The condition is caused when there is a higher demand of C1 esterase inhibitor, compared to the available amount of functional C1 esterase.

    The primary function of C1 esterase is to turn off the immune system, however the deficiency of this enzyme leads to higher level of bradykinin, which in turn increase vascular permeability. Increased vascular permeability results in leakage of fluid into the surrounding area, resulting in edema or swelling.

    Reports have suggested that there are certain trigger factors like stress, infection, pregnancy, injury, menstruation, and certain drugs like oral contraceptives and dental procedures, which may trigger an attack of hereditary angioedema.

    Hereditary angioedema is classified into three types, depending nature of the defect. Type I is associated with low levels of C1 inhibitor protein levels, which is the most common type, Type II is associated with normal levels of C1 inhibitor, but with abnormal functions and in Type III while the C1 inhibitor protein level and function are dependent on estrogen. Some experts suggest that there is a fourth type called acquired angioedema, which is usually drug induced and there is no family history.

    Hereditary Angioedema Symptoms

    Some of the common symptoms associated with hereditary angioedema include the following,

    • Blockage of the airways, which results in sudden hoarseness and swelling in the throat
    • Frequent and recurrent attacks of abdominal cramping without any apparent cause
    • Sudden swelling of the tongue, throat, lips, eyes, legs and arms
    • Intestinal swelling which can be associated with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, pain, dehydration and shock.

    Diagnosis: There are certain blood tests that can help in the diagnosis of the condition. These tests need to be performed during an acute episode of swelling. These tests include C1 inhibitor function test, C1 inhibitor blood level and complement components test for C4 and C2.

    Natural Treatment For Hereditary Angioedema

    Hereditary angioedema attacks can range from mild to severe which may be associated with life threatening situation, especially when involved in the swelling and obstruction of the air passage. Further, during attacks, the individual’s quality of life is severely compromised and he may be unable to perform some of the most routine functions.

    While the treatment options are fairly limited and depend on the extent to which they alleviate some of the symptoms, there are certain natural treatment options that might be beneficial,

    • Alfalfa herb is considered useful in dealing with symptoms of edema. Take about 2 to 3 grams of active ingredient each day which will help detoxify the body. Overdose can trigger stomach upset and diarrhea.
    • Herbs like parsley, dandelion, Uva Ursi, Butcher’s Broom and Horsetail work as natural diuretics and can help in alleviating some of the symptoms. However these herbs may interact strongly with prescription medicine and hence should be taken only after consulting your doctor.
    • Coriander seed tea is also beneficial in alleviating symptoms of edema.

  • What Causes Typhus Fever? Symptoms And Treatment Of Typhus Disease

    Typhus is a serious infectious disease that is caused by the Rickettsia bacteria. Typhus originates from typhos which means ‘hazy or smoky’, and describes the state of mind of the individual who is afflicted with typhus. Rickettsia cannot survive for a prolonged period of time outside living cells. Most importantly, typhus must not be confused with typhoid, the two are unrelated.

    The 2 commonly seen typhus illnesses are louse borne and murine. The two are caused by 2 diverse bacteria; however, they are clinically rather analogous, and share certain characteristic symptoms of high fever and rash. Murine typhus fever is a relatively milder version than the louse borne fever.  Epidemic typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia prowazekii; whilst, Murine typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia typhi.

    Characteristically, outbreaks occur in filthy, unclean conditions where people hardly ever change clothes or bathe. The typhus bacteria attack the cells that line the blood vessels in your body. By and large, 7 days after an infectious louse bite, the illness commences.
    Murine typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia typhi; and it spreads to humans by rat fleas. Murine pertains to the scientific name of the animal group that includes mice and rats. Murine typhus fever is a gentler disease than the louse borne typhus. About 1 to 2 weeks after the initial flea bite, the symptoms become evident.

    Symptoms Of Epidemic And Murine Typhus Fever

    Symptoms of the 2 types of typhus fever are somewhat same; however, here are the typical features of each:

    Epidemic typhus:

    • High grade fever with chills.
    • Delirium.
    • Headache.
    • Backache.
    • Bad cough.
    • Joint and bone pains and severe muscle pain.
    • Rashes.
    • Drop in the blood pressure.
    • Extreme sensitivity to light.

    Murine typhus:

    • Pain in the abdomen.
    • Backache.
    • Rashes.
    • Headache.
    • High grade fever.
    • Dry cough.
    • Joint and bone pains.
    • Nausea and vomiting.

    Treatment For Typhus Disease

    • If left untreated; or any kind of neglect occurs, the disease can prove to be fatal. Timely treatment with antibiotics is very essential. Hospitalization may or may not be required. Commonly prescribed antibiotics are: tetracycline, doxycycline, azithromycin and chloramphenicol.
    • Alongside, the doctor will ensure that you get good supportive treatment in order to hasten recovery and promote healing.
    • It is very vital that you stay well hydrated; drink plenty of water and fluids. Soups, broths, juices and herbal teas are a must. In severe cases, the patient may need to be put on to IV fluids to keep the water-electrolyte balance.
    • Nausea, vomiting and blood pressure need to be managed effectively. Suck on ice chips and have ginger tea frequently through the day. Ginger will help allay most GI discomfort and treat nausea and vomiting efficiently.
    • Pain killers and anti-emetics may be necessary in extreme cases.
    • Echinacea tea has proved to be rather beneficial. It is an immune booster and helps handle the infection better. Echinacea is a powerful anti bacterial and consuming Echinacea tea or having a supplement daily will yield good results. However, do confer with your doctor before staring a supplement.

  • Common Causes Of Scratched Esophagus: Symptoms & Home Remedies

    The esophagus is a muscular tube which connects the mouth and the stomach and the food in to the stomach via esophagus. Several conditions can afflict the structure and the working of the esophagus, leading to pain and irritation. Common reasons for a scratched esophagus are:

    • Acid reflux: Recurrent regurgitation of food from the stomach in to the esophagus irritates the esophagus. A back flow of gastric contents causes pain in the esophagus, given that it cannot cope with acidic conditions.
    • Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus due to undue alcohol and tobacco intake, vomiting, viral, fungal and bacterial infections, as well as certain medications trigger swelling.
    • Irregularities in the sphincters of the esophagus: A malfunction in the 2 esophageal sphincters will afflict the passage of food through the esophagus, and can result in pain, scratching, swelling, vomiting, and infections if the food bolus stays in the esophagus for long.
    • Ulcers in the esophagus: Makes the esophagus scratchy and painful. Ulcers or sores in the esophagus arise due to damage of the esophageal mucosa by acidic contents, bacteria and certain medicines. Such ulceration causes scratchiness, pain, particularly when the food passes through the esophagus. If untreated, these ulcers can bleed and cause a lot of tissue impairment.
    • Esophageal varices: Enlargement of the veins at the lower end of the esophagus is known as esophageal varices.
    • Cancer of the esophagus: Chronic gastro-esopagheal reflux disease, excessive intake of spices, tobacco and alcohol may produce cancerous growths. This manifests as scratchiness, discomfort, pain, swallowing difficulty, weight loss, and general malaise.
    • Chemical or physical trauma to the wall of the esophagus is another significant cause.
    • Tissue damage because of excessive exposure to radiation.
    • Hypersensitivity of the esophagus.
    • Undue alcohol consumption, chronic and long term smoking, eating too much spicy food, nicotine and caffeine are important causative factors too.
    • Autoimmune disorders such as systemic scleroderma may be an etiological factor as well.

    What Does A Scratched Esophagus Feel Like?

    Symptoms of the scratched esophagus include:

    • There will be discomfort and irritation whilst swallowing food.
    • Difficulty and pain whilst swallowing.
    • Reflux of acid and food.
    • Occasional spiting of blood.
    • Occasional chest pain
    • Water-brash
    • Vomiting

    Home Remedies To Heal A Scratched Esophagus

    You could try these tips and remedies to manage the symptoms; however, after about 5 to 7 days if you do not see any amelioration, it is vital that you consult your doctor.

    • Experts advise taking medications such as anti-histamines and proton pump inhibitors to reduce the release of acid in the stomach.
    • Consumption of very hot foods and beverages must be avoided; it increases the pain and discomfort.
    • Quit smoking completely.
    • Cut down on spicy foods altogether.
    • Make sure you manage the reflux effectively – have small frequent meals daily, never lie down after a meal, exercise at least 3 times a week.
    • Certain foods trigger acid release – keep a diary of the offending foods and steadily avoid them.
    • Stress, alcohol and tobacco have been identified as the contributing factors for all esophageal problems. Steer clear of smoking and alcohol. Stress management is as important.

    Esophageal dilation is necessary when there is an abnormal constriction of esophagus. Surgical excision of damaged and/or cancerous parts of the esophagus may be required.

  • Popcorn Shell Stuck In Throat: Home Remedies To Get Rid Of It

    Removing a foreign object stuck in the throat of a choking person is no easy task. Popcorn shells are known to stick to the lining of the throat and, in occasional cases, they may even block your throat. It can be a terrifying experience for some.

    Whilst coughing is the simplest way of dislodging any small object from the throat, the Heimlich maneuver (that powerfully expels air from the lungs and may also induce vomiting) may need to be used in case it gets lodged further and coughing does not help in its removal.

    How To Get Rid Of Popcorn Shell Stuck In Throat?

    Drink lots of liquids first. Start with one glass of water and see if it helps wash down the popcorn shell. In case it fails to work, you could try soda pop. At times, the fizzing action of soda helps to wash down the piece of popcorn; try something that is very frothy, like ginger ale; it will propel the popcorn shell in to the stomach.

    • Experts also suggest eating something that will grab on to the popcorn shell if the liquids do not work. A slice of fluffy bread, a banana or a morsel of cooked, sticky rice will yield quick results. The popcorn shell will hold on to these foods and move down. Most of these will definitely grab on to the foreign object and help it slide down.
    • Alternating coughing and swallowing will also help to dislodge the stuck popcorn shell / kernel from the throat.
    • Some experts also recommend drinking a little bit of olive oil to extricate the stuck shell from your throat. You may also gulp egg yolk, which is slippery and removes the lodged popcorn shell effectively.
    • If all these measures fail to work and you are feeling uneasy, you need to go to the emergency room or the nearest clinic immediately. Popcorn shells neglected and left in the throat can cause irritation, inflammation, swelling, swallowing difficulty, breathing difficulty and infections.
    • Never leave the shell in, thinking that it will work its way out. Neglect worsens the situation. Manage the problem right away.

    Treatment For Popcorn Shell Stuck In Throat

    In case someone is choking over the popcorn shell, rush to him immediately; he will show bluish lips, wheezing or will place his hands on his throat as if he was choking himself to death. Call 911 immediately, if the victim is choking.

    • Ask the person “shall I help you?” it is imperative that you ask the person for permission and receive permission. If you do not, you could be held liable for anything you do to the victim. If he agrees, proceed with the Heimlich maneuver.
    • For the maneuver, you need to place yourself behind him and wrap your arms around his waist. Make a fist with your dominant hand. You have to place your fist on the person’s upper abdomen, i.e. above the navel and below the rib cage. With your other hand push upwards rapidly, in a propelling manner, towards the abdomen. Do not squeeze the ribcage. If it’s a child, do it even more gently. Repeat the thrusts till the foreign particle is expelled or the victim becomes unconscious. If he gets unconscious, you have to rush to the ER.
    • Do not slap the victim on the back as this could aggravate the whole thing.

  • How to Use Parsley for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

    Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a common infection that occurs frequently in women. This happens when a bacteria enters the urethra and begins to spread. If left untreated, the bacteria will travel to surrounding organs of the urinary tract and cause more harm in the body. For easy remedy, the use of natural home ingredients as treatment is mainly used.

    Parsley for UTI

    Parsley has many health benefits and has been used as treatment in a number of illnesses including UTI. It contains vitamin C more than any other typical vegetable and known citrus fruits.

    It has an iron content twice as much as spinach and a very good source of vitamin A, manganese, calcium and potassium. It also contains flavonoids that act as antioxidants of the body. Generally, parsley is like an immune enhancing multivitamin and mineral complex in the form of a plant.

    In a urinary tract infection, parsley is used to alleviate the infection as it has certain anti-fungal properties. Fresh parsley also has Apiol which is an essential oil that acts as a urinary tract antiseptic. Moreover, since parsley acts as a diuretic, it helps flush the bad bacteria causing the infection from the body’s bladder and urinary tract.

    How to Use Parsley for UTI

    • Parsley can be used for UTI in a number of ways. It can traditionally be added in the diet as an ingredient in one’s food or it can be boiled in plain water or tea as a drink.
    • The parsley tea is a very good treatment for UTI. A person should drink 4 cups of this tea for at least 7 days to cure urinary tract infection. The UTI symptoms will significantly decrease in just 3 days, but one must continue drinking to complete the 7 days.
    • After the 7-day requirement, taking the parsley tea must be discontinued. Since it is considered a diuretic, continues intake will make the body lose too much water along with its minerals.
    • In cases with pregnant women with UTI, parsley is mainly avoided because it is a uterine stimulant and may cause more harm than cure.

    How to Make Parsley Tea for UTI

    • Boil at least four cups of filtered water.
    • Remove water from the heat.
    • Mince at least four teaspoonfuls of fresh parsley (including stems and roots if available).
    • Soak minced parsley for 20 minutes then strain.
    • Drink four cups of the concoction in one day for 7 days — it can be taken hot or cold. It may be reheated, but must not be boiled.

  • How to Prevent and Get Rid of Bladder or Kidney Stones?

    Bladder stones, otherwise known as kidney stones, urolithiasis, or renal calculi, are often recurrent urologic conditions. Almost anyone can be afflicted with this common condition, as it is one of the oldest medical abnormalities known to humans. Morbidity rates are higher among men than women, and those diagnosed with bladder stones will eventually suffer from recurrence within a decade.

    Bladder stones can occur anywhere in the urinary tract. Presence of which may cause obstructions in the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. A diagnosis of urolithiasis must be suspected if symptoms such as abdominal pain, dysuria (painful urination), or blood in the urine are observed.

    What Causes Bladder Stones

    Basically, any condition that leads to the stagnation of urine within the bladder can result to the formation of stones. Once urine becomes too concentrated, wastes clump together and form crystals. Eventually, these become calculi. Bladder stones are made up of different components. Some are composed of calcium oxalate, uric acid, struvite, or cystine. The formation of these calculi depends on the following factors:

    • Low urine volume. This is usually a result of low fluid intake.
    • Hypercalciuria. Excessive amount of calcium in the urine can lead to stone formation.
    • High urine pH
    • Spinal cord injuries. Such conditions incapacitate the extremities, including control of the urinary tract. Incontinence follows and urine stays within the bladder walls.

    How to Prevent Bladder Stone

    Health conscious individuals can prevent the formation of bladder stone by adhering to the following recommendations:

    • Calcium. Consume just the right amount of dairy products and calcium-fortified orange juice.
    • Sodium. Fresh or frozen vegetables must comprise majority of the diet when possible.
    • Protein. Meat such as beef and pork intake must be kept to a moderate level.
    • Potassium. Low intake of potassium rich foods such as vegetables and fruits increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
    • Limited oxalates. Precaution must be observed in eating foods such as spinach, rhubarb, beets, nuts, chocolate, tea, wheat bran, and strawberries.
    • Supplements. Vitamin C supplements and antacids must be avoided.

    How to Get Rid of Bladder Stones

    By far the best home remedy for getting rid of bladder stones is hydration. The patient must drink lots of fluids, with simple water as the best choice. Other alternative choices are ginger ale, lemon-lime soft drinks, and fruit juices. At least 2.5 quarts of urine a day is needed to prevent stone formation, which is about 10 to 12 full glasses of water a day. More glasses of fluids must be consumed to wash away the buildup of wastes within the urinary tract.