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Print: What can I do to keep from getting another kidney stone?
Most people who have kidney stones have a 50% chance of developing another kidney stone within 10 years. But there are things you can do to lower your risk:
- Drink at least 2 liters of fluids (water is best) per day. Your doctor may have you measure your urine output to be sure you are drinking the right amount of fluids.
- Do not eat more than 1,500 mg of salt per day (about 1 teaspoon). This includes salt in pre-packaged food. Check nutrition labels to see how much salt (sodium) is in your food.
- Try not to eat more than 2 servings of meat per day. Each serving should be no more than 6 to 8 ounces.
If you have had more than one kidney stone, your doctor might send you to a specialist to find the exact cause of your stones. Some people need medicine to keep from getting another kidney stone
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Source
Medical Management of Common Urinary Calculi by PK Pietrow, M.D. and ME Karellas, M.D. (American Family Physician June 01, 2006, http://www.aafp.org/afp/20060701/86.html)
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff
Reviewed/Updated: 11/10
Created: 07/06
