Final answer:
To prevent the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones, one should increase fluid intake, avoid oxalate-rich foods, and maintain adequate dietary calcium. Calcium phosphate stones may require a diet low in protein, nitrogen, and sodium, and possibly medications. Lifestyle changes like reducing soft drink consumption and eating less animal protein also contribute to prevention.
Step-by-step explanation:
Preventative Measures for Calcium Stones
The most common type of kidney stone is composed of calcium oxalate crystals. To prevent the formation of calcium oxalate stones, dietary modifications and certain medications can be recommended. These include increasing fluid intake to produce 2 to 2.5 liters of urine per day, limiting the intake of oxalate-rich foods like chocolate, nuts, and spinach, as well as maintaining a sufficient intake of dietary calcium which binds oxalate in the gastrointestinal tract and reduces its absorption.
For calcium phosphate stones, often associated with hyperparathyroidism and renal tubular acidosis, a diet low in protein, nitrogen, and sodium may be helpful. Additionally, medications like thiazides, potassium citrate, magnesium citrate, and allopurinol may be prescribed based on the stone's cause.
Lifestyle factors such as reducing consumption of cola soft drinks, eating less animal protein, losing weight, and staying hydrated are also significant in preventing kidney stones. Certain fruit juices like orange and cranberry may help lower the risk factors for developing specific types of stones.