Can kidney stones be reversed?

Most kidney stones cannot be dissolved naturally once they have formed. However, many small stones can pass on their own, and certain stones—especially uric acid stones—may be dissolved with medication prescribed by a healthcare provider. The encouraging news is that kidney stones can often be prevented from coming back. Drinking plenty of water, eating less salt, and getting calcium from food as part of a balanced diet can help lower your risk.

The Liver and Kidney Hope Foundation provides education and support, not medical diagnosis or treatment. Talk with your healthcare provider about symptoms, testing, treatment, and a prevention plan that is right for you.

Frequently asked questions

Get clear, trustworthy information about kidney stone treatment, prevention, warning signs, and the connection between kidney and liver health. If you are currently in pain, contact a healthcare provider right away.

When should kidney stone pain be treated as an emergency?

Contact a healthcare provider right away for possible kidney stone pain. Go to the emergency room if pain is accompanied by fever, chills, vomiting, or little to no urine. These symptoms can signal an infection or urinary blockage that needs urgent treatment. Seek emergency help as well for severe or worsening pain, confusion, or if you cannot keep fluids down.

How are liver health and kidney stones connected?

The Liver and Kidney Hope Foundation recognizes that kidney stones are part of its core mission. The liver connection is especially important in primary hyperoxaluria, a rare condition in which the liver produces too much oxalate, increasing stone risk. Liver and digestive conditions that interfere with fat absorption can also raise risk. Hydration, less salt and processed food, a healthy weight, and managing diabetes and blood pressure support both kidney and liver health.

Does The Liver and Kidney Hope Foundation offer kidney stone remedies or products?

No. The Liver and Kidney Hope Foundation does not sell remedies or products and is not a medical provider. We offer a free 16-page Kidney Stones Guide, available online and as a PDF, with education about symptoms, prevention, treatment options, and warning signs. We also provide community support and outreach through chapters and programs. For treatment decisions, please see your healthcare provider.

What should I do after I am safe and my symptoms are addressed?

Use the free Kidney Stones Guide to learn practical prevention steps and questions to bring to your healthcare visit. If you pass a stone, your healthcare provider may ask you to save it for testing. Knowing the type of stone can help guide a personalized plan to prevent another one.

Can kidney stones be reversed or dissolved naturally?

Most kidney stones cannot be dissolved naturally after they form. Many small stones do pass on their own, but this can be painful and should be guided by a healthcare provider. Uric acid stones are an important exception: they can sometimes be dissolved with prescription medication that changes urine acidity. Do not rely on home remedies in place of medical care.

Can I prevent another kidney stone?

Often, yes. Staying well hydrated, reducing salt, and keeping calcium-rich foods in your diet can help reduce the risk of future stones. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional changes based on your stone type, medical history, urine testing, and blood work.

Should I avoid calcium if I have had kidney stones?

Not necessarily. For many people, getting normal amounts of calcium from food helps bind oxalate in the digestive tract and may lower the risk of calcium oxalate stones. Calcium supplements and major diet changes should be discussed with your healthcare provider, especially if you have kidney disease or a history of recurrent stones.

What causes kidney stones?

Stones form when minerals and other substances in urine become concentrated and crystallize. Not drinking enough fluids is a common contributor. Other factors can include a high-sodium diet, certain medical conditions or medicines, family history, obesity, diabetes, digestive disorders, and the specific makeup of your urine.

Take the next safe step

If you have kidney stone pain, contact a healthcare provider right away. Go to the emergency room for fever, chills, vomiting, or little to no urine. Once you are safe, explore our free Kidney Stones Guide for reliable information on prevention, treatment options, and warning signs.