Kidney stone risk is higher in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (a form of arthritis), according to research findings. Newly diagnosed kidney stones were found to be 19 percent more common in ankylosing spondylitis patients, compared to those without the condition.

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis were found to have altered calcium and vitamin D metabolism, along with higher rates of inflammatory bowel disease (which can increase their absorption of calcium and oxalate). Another factor that can increase the risk of kidney stones in ankylosing spondylitis is the use of anti-inflammatory medications and immobilization.

The researchers identified 3,334 patients with ankylosing spondylitis who were matched with 13,336 controls.

The study found that being male was an independent risk factor for kidney stones. The authors wrote, “This finding is consistent with the findings of our study in which male predominance in nephrolithiasis was observed in both the ankylosing spondylitis and non-ankylosing spondylitis cohorts (male-to-female ratio 2.1 and 2.27, respectively) and this further validated the fact that males with or without ankylosing spondylitis tend to have a higher risk of nephrolithiasis.”

“Our results showed that patients with ankylosing spondylitis are more likely to be associated with nephrolithiasis than non-ankylosing spondylitis patients,” they concluded.

Lower the risk of kidney stones naturally with lifestyle changes and diet

Some people require surgery to remove kidney stones, but many can address the pain without an invasive operation. Before we take a look at how to get rid of kidney stones naturally without surgery, let’s first discuss some preventative measures to avoid kidney stone formation.

As mentioned above, we all have the potential for developing kidney stones. However, there are some steps that can decrease your risk. Take a look at the prevention tips below to see how you can lessen your chances of getting kidney stones.

• Drink lots of fluids to keep your urine less concentrated with waste
• Eat more fruits and vegetables, which make urine less acidic
• Reduce excess salt as it can add to stone formation
• Get sufficient amounts of calcium

Now, chances are, anyone who does get this condition would want to know how to get rid of kidney stones without surgery. While every case is different, especially in light of the different size of the stones, there are several home options.
The following list addresses how to get rid of kidney stones naturally with home remedies:

• Apple cider vinegar: Sufferers have reported that long-term use of apple cider vinegar can help cure and prevent kidney stones. Mix the apple cider vinegar with honey and drink it several times during the day, or mix it with baking soda in a glass of water and drink it daily until the stones pass from the body.
• Uva ursi: This is a bearberry that grows naturally in the northern hemisphere. It is rich in tannins and flavonoids and seems to help soften kidney stones.
• Lemon juice and olive oil: Citric acid in lemons helps break down crystals in stones, while olive oil serves as a lubricant, making it easier to pass the stone.
• Dandelion root: It is a diuretic, which can help the stones pass. It can be consumed in tea or as a supplement.
• Nettle leaf: It has diuretic and antibacterial properties, which can help the stones pass. Nettle leaf can be used to make tea.
• Basil: Some studies have shown that basil can dislodge stones from the kidney and the urethra. Take a handful of basil leaves and steep them in boiling water to make a tea.
• Wheatgrass juice: Many kidney stone sufferers have found wheatgrass highly effective in treating the problem.
• Bran flakes: A study by the American Society of Nephrology suggests diets rich in whole grains reduce kidney stones, partially due to fiber content.
• Celery: A glass of raw celery juice can relieve kidney stone pain thanks to its antispasmodic properties. It is also a diuretic, helping increase the amount or urine to help flush out the stones.
• Kidney beans: Since they are high in fiber, they can be helpful in treating kidney stones.
• Lemonade/limeade/cranberry juice: These are high in citric acid, which can prevent crystals from forming in the first place or from increasing the size of your existing kidney stones.
• Water: Not only does it help to pass the kidney stones, it also reduces the risk of stone formation altogether.