Kidney stones are hard compounds made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. There are four types of kidney stones namely calcium oxalate, struvite, uric acid, and cystine. Kidney stones can be caused by certain types of diet, supplements, medical conditions, or medications. They affect the urinary tract from the kidneys to the bladder. Let’s explore the main causes of kidney stones in detail.
Causes of Kidney Stones
Here are some of the most common causes of kidney stones:
- Medical conditions- Medical conditions such as urinary tract infections, gout, inflammatory bowel disease, etc. are some of the conditions that can cause stones in the kidneys. Excess amounts of calcium in the blood and urine and an increase in acid in the body give rise to a condition called distal renal tubular acidosis which can raise the chances of formation of calcium phosphate kidney stones.
- Family history- Family history increases your chances of developing kidney stones. In order to avoid its occurrence, you should get regular checkups done and refrain from eating foods that are high in sugar and salt as a preventive measure.
- Obesity- Obesity is directly related to the development of kidney stones. Obesity causes insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinemia, metabolic derangements that may form calcium-containing kidney stones. It changes the acid levels in the body and hampers the body’s metabolism causing more secretion of substances like oxalate and uric acid into the urine, which form stones. People suffering from type 2 diabetes are more prone to getting kidney stones.
- Dehydration- Drinking less fluids leads to a lack of water or fluids in the body. This leads to more concentration of minerals and salts crystallizing in the urine thus leading to the formation of kidney stones. Less quantity of fluids in the body reduces the urine’s ability to dissolve wastes thus forming stones. You should stay properly hydrated in order to avoid the risk of developing stones.
- Exercise- We are at high risk of developing kidney stones when we perform too little or too much exercise. People living a sedentary lifestyle should incorporate some form of physical exercise into their daily routine. On the other hand, excessive exercise leads to concentration in the urine that can also lead to stone formation in the kidneys.
Conclusion
Kidney stones do not form on their own, but a number of factors are responsible for their formation. We have listed above some of the common causes of kidney stones. We can help prevent this condition to an extent by adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, staying properly hydrated, and having health insurance to cover potential treatments.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.