Kidney stone disease is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Kidney stones can be painful and debilitating. The good news is that there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of developing kidney stones.
What is kidney stone disease?
Kidney stone disease is a condition in which hard deposits, called stones, form in the kidneys. Kidney stones can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball. They can be composed of a variety of substances, including calcium, oxalate, urate, and phosphate.
Symptoms of kidney stone disease
The most common symptom of kidney stone disease is severe pain in the lower back or side. This pain may radiate down to the groin or thighs. Other symptoms may include:
- Bloody urination
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent urination
- Need to urinate urgently
- Pain or burning during urination
- Sensation that the bladder is not emptying completely
Causes of kidney stone disease
The exact cause of kidney stones is unknown, but there are a number of factors that can increase your risk, including:
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can make your urine more concentrated, making it easier for stones to form.
- Diet: A diet high in animal protein, oxalates, salt and sugar can increase your risk of kidney stones.
- Obesity: People who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop kidney stones.
- Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and hyperparathyroidism, can increase your risk of kidney stone disease.
- Family history: If you have a family history of kidney stones, you are more likely to develop the condition.
Prevention of kidney stone disease
There are many things you can do to reduce your risk of developing kidney stones, including:
- Drink plenty of fluids: Aim to drink eight glasses of water or other calorie-free beverages a day.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit intake of animal proteins, oxalates, salt and sugar.
- Maintain a healthy weight: If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help reduce your risk of kidney stones.
- Control your medical conditions: If you have a medical condition that increases your risk of kidney stones, work with your doctor to control it.
Treatment of kidney stone disease
Treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and location of the stone. Small stones can often be passed in the urine on their own with plenty of fluids and pain relievers. Larger stones may need to be broken up with shock waves or laser treatment or removed by surgery.