How Are Stones Expelled?
Dec 27, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Fujun
Introduction
1. Surgical treatment at a hospital is an option—particularly for patients with more severe conditions—as it is the fastest and most effective approach.
2. For smaller, smoother stones that are more likely to pass spontaneously, non-surgical management may be appropriate.
3. Maintain adequate daily fluid intake. Kidney stones often develop due to reduced urine output, leading to accumulation of calcium oxalate in the body.
Urolithiasis (urinary stones) is a disease whose prevalence has been steadily increasing alongside societal development. Stones primarily form due to unhealthy daily habits—particularly excessive intake of calcium and magnesium compounds—which the body cannot adequately metabolize, absorb, or utilize, ultimately leading to stone formation. Depending on the size, location, and composition of the stones, patients may use medications to facilitate stone passage. But how exactly are stones expelled? Below, we address this question.
How Are Urinary Stones Expelled?
1. Surgical intervention at a hospital is an option—especially for patients with severe or complicated cases. This approach offers the fastest and most effective resolution. Alternatively, medical (non-surgical) management using pharmacotherapy can gradually dissolve stones and promote their natural expulsion. While convenient, strict adherence to prescribed dosing schedules is essential.
2. For small, smooth stones that are more likely to pass spontaneously, non-surgical treatment is appropriate. Dietary modifications play a key role: reduce consumption of foods high in oxalates—such as celery, spinach, green peppers, and tofu—and limit intake of red meat and organ meats (e.g., liver). Instead, increase intake of beneficial foods like carrots and wood ear mushrooms. Since improper diet is a major contributing factor to stone formation, maintaining a balanced, stone-preventive diet is crucial.
3. Increase daily fluid intake. Renal stones often develop due to low urine output, allowing calcium oxalate to accumulate. Drinking ample water increases urine volume and helps adjust urinary pH—both factors that favor stone passage. Moreover, adequate hydration benefits overall health. Physical activity—such as jumping or light aerobic exercise—can also assist in dislodging and expelling stones. Thus, urolithiasis is generally a highly treatable condition.
Knowledge Extension: Key Considerations for Patients with Urinary Stones
1. Avoid Spicy Foods
Patients with urinary stones should avoid spicy and pungent foods, as these may irritate the urethra and potentially exacerbate symptoms. Therefore, foods such as chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns should be minimized.
2. Limit Animal-Based Protein Intake
Protein restriction is recommended for urinary stone patients. Accordingly, consumption of animal-derived foods—including beef, pork, lamb, and especially organ meats—should be significantly reduced or avoided altogether, as they impose additional metabolic burden on the kidneys and may compromise overall health.
3. Avoid High-Purine Foods
Foods rich in purines can worsen stone formation and should therefore be strictly limited. Examples include seafood, spinach, peanuts, and other purine-dense items.
4. Limit High-Calcium and High-Oxalate Foods
Both high-calcium and high-oxalate foods may adversely affect urinary stone control—and in some cases, even aggravate the condition. Hence, patients should avoid or carefully moderate intake of such foods.
The above outlines common strategies for urinary stone expulsion. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
