What are the most common types of Kidney Stones?
90% of kidney stones will be calcium in nature; more specifically, calcium oxalate stones. The other main stones include Uric Acid stones, Cysteine stones, and Ammonium magnesium phosphate stones, or Struvites. Rarer stones include; xanthine, triamterene, silicate, and matrix calculi. Crystal formation and type is dependent upon temperature, pH, and concentration in urine.
Are there any other stones besides the kidney variety?
Yes. Other areas where stones may occur are in the Ureter and Bladder. Interestingly, the shape of a stone is paralleled to their location within the urinary tract.
I heard my Doctor mention ESWL as a possible treatment, but didn't understand what it was. What is ESWL and what does it do?
ESWL is an abbreviation for Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy. This method of treatment uses a special instrument that emits sound (shock) waves to break apart existing kidney stones. The smaller pieces can then (more easily) travel through the urinary tract and pass out of the body. The process begins by lying on a water-filled cushion. The surgeon/physician uses x rays or an ultrasound test to locate the stone. Once its location has been verified, high-energy sound waves pass through your body without injury and work to break the stone into passable pieces.
The process will take about an hour. It is not uncommon for you to receive a sedative or local anesthetic to ease any discomfort. Your surgeon may use a stent if your stones are larger than 2.5cm, or 1 inch.
What is a Stent?
A (ureteral) stent is a small silicone or plastic tube that is placed inside the natural passage of the urinary tract. It may be used as an adjunct to any aggressive kidney stone treatment, including cystoscopy, ESWL, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy. It is placed cystoscopically, with one end being used to curl in the bladder, the other, to curl in the kidney. Due to its multiple perforations, the stent will allow urine to drain from the kidney down the ureter, and to the bladder. It is most commonly employed to bypass a stone, relieve obstruction, or keep the ureter from swelling shut after a surgical procedure. If you require a stent, your doctor will advise for the reason it was needed. Keep in mind that stents need to be removed regularly, as they can acquire build up similar to those seen in a stone, subsequently making its removal very difficult.
Is diet and nutrition supplementation really needed if I have a kidney stone?
Yes. In America, The National Kidney Foundation states that persons with kidney stones, or recurrent stones, "need to follow a special diet." Depending on the type of stone you have, dietary adequacy is critical in the treatment and prevention of potential stone formation. For example; excess sodium results in the loss of calcium through urine, putting you at an increased risk for developing a kidney stone. Therefore a recommendation of limiting sodium to 2,000-3,000mg may be warranted by your physician. If you are prone to kidney stones, dietary modifications such as reducing animal proteins in diet, adequate hydration, nutritional supplementation, and avoiding foods high in oxalates, may be recommended to lessen the chance of stone formation in some at-risk individuals as well. Progressive Health always recommends checking with your doctor or dietitian to be sure that your diet is specific enough to prevent stones from forming.
If I decide to order Renalis, are Progressive Health's products sent discreetly?
Yes; Progressive Health respects your privacy. All orders will be shipped in a plain, unmarked envelope with a return address from Progressive Health Nutraceuticals Inc. (For more information about our shipping and billing policies, see Shipping and Billing below)
How soon can I expect to see results?
The results derived from Renalis are dependant on both the individual and severity of condition. While a large number of customers yield immediate results, others may see results in only a few short weeks. Generally, we advise that you use the product continuously, for a minimum of 45 - 60 days.
Are there any side effects when taking Renalis?
As with all nutritional supplements, there is potential for reaction. Progressive Health ensures that all potential conflicts and side effects are listed on the product information pages. However, we strongly recommend consulting with your physician if you suffer from any pre-existing conditions (other than kidney stones), known allergies, or if you are currently taking any medications. Based on customer feedback, order history, and regular product overview, there has yet to be a report of any serious side effects resulting from the implementation of Progressive Health products into existing treatment programs.
