Hello, I'm Dr. Emily, a board-certified urologist. I've been practicing for over 15 years and have extensive experience treating kidney stones.

It's important to understand that **drinking water is crucial for overall health and can help prevent kidney stones**, but it's not a guaranteed solution for passing an existing stone. While **increased fluid intake can help facilitate stone passage in some cases**, it's **not a substitute for medical evaluation and management**.

Here's a breakdown of the complexities involved:

1. Kidney Stone Size and Composition:

The **size and composition of the kidney stone play a significant role in its passage**. Small stones (less than 5 mm) are more likely to pass on their own with increased fluid intake, while larger stones might require intervention.

2. Pain Management:

Passing a kidney stone can be extremely painful. **While drinking water may help ease discomfort in some cases**, it's **essential to seek medical attention for pain management**. Medication can be prescribed to alleviate pain and help relax the muscles in the urinary tract, making passage easier.

3. Individual Hydration Needs:

The **amount of water you should drink to pass a kidney stone varies based on your individual needs**. Factors like your weight, activity level, climate, and overall health status influence your daily fluid requirements.

4. Medical Supervision:

**Never attempt to self-treat kidney stones**. It's essential to **consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment**. They can assess the stone's size and composition, recommend the appropriate course of action, and monitor your progress.

5. Potential Complications:

**Kidney stones can cause serious complications if left untreated**, including:

* Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Stones can block the flow of urine, increasing the risk of infection.
* Kidney damage: If a stone remains lodged in the kidney, it can lead to damage and scarring.
* Sepsis: A severe, life-threatening infection that can arise from a kidney stone.

6. Medical Intervention:

In some cases, **medical intervention may be necessary to remove a kidney stone**, especially if it's large, causing severe pain, or obstructing urine flow. Treatment options include:

* Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL): Uses sound waves to break the stone into smaller fragments that can pass more easily.
* Ureteroscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera and instruments is inserted into the urinary tract to remove or break up the stone.
* Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL): A small incision is made in the back to access the kidney and remove the stone.

In conclusion, while **drinking water is essential for overall health and can assist with passing smaller kidney stones**, it's **crucial to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and management**. **Self-treating can be dangerous and may lead to complications**. Consulting a urologist ensures you receive the right treatment tailored to your individual needs.
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Fluids: Drink ten 10 ounce glasses (3 liters, 3.2 quarts, 0.8 gallons) of water per day to decrease the risk of stone formation. If your urine is light and clear, you're likely drinking enough water. Maintain Calcium: A normal calcium intake is recommended to prevent kidney stones.read more >>