Prevention of kidney stones depends on the type of stone and the presence or absence of an underlying disease. In almost all cases, increasing fluid intake so that a person consistently drinks several quarts of water a day is an important preventative measure. When a disease is identified as the cause of stone formation, treatment specific to that disease may decrease the likelihood of recurrent stones.

     There are steps you can take, in consultation with your doctor and dietitian, to help prevent kidney stones.  Drink at least two litres of water during the day and a glass of water whenever you get up at night to pass urine. Be sure to drink plenty after meals and after exercise.

　　Patients with calcium oxalate stones may benefit from taking a medication called a diuretic, which has the effect of decreasing the amount of calcium passed in the urine, and staying within the recommended dietary allowance for calcium and avoid foods high in oxalate content (such as tea or chocolate).  Do not take very large doses of Vitamin C (4 grams or more daily) and avoid heavy use of antacids. Vitamin B6 (not exceeding 50 mg/day) may protect against recurrent calcium oxalate stones. While it was once believed that eating a low-calcium diet was helpful for patients with calcium oxalate stones, new research seems to prove otherwise. An Italian study published early in 2002 reported that a low-salt, low-meat diet. Other items in the diet that may encourage calcium oxalate stone formation include beer, black pepper, berries, broccoli, chocolate, spinach, and tea.

　　If you have a history of  kidney stones, cut down on the amount of red meat in your diet. Kidney  stones may also require treatment with a medication called allopurinol which reduces the uric acid levels in the blood.