On World Kidney Day, let’s discuss an important topic that afflicts millions across the world. India accounts for 12% of the global prevalence of this health complication. It’s about kidney stones, which are very common in India and are relatively more common in North India. Kidney stones, also known as renal stones, are solid deposits that form within the kidneys when minerals and salts in urine crystallize. These are often painful but sometimes can be silent and lead to renal failure, says Dr. Ahmed Kamaal, Senior Consultant, Urology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad.
“Prevalence of renal stones in India is around 12% while recurrence rates of symptomatic stones are high at more than 50% within 5 years of a first episode, suggesting that identifiable high-risk group of patients may experience common pathways in the pathogenesis of stone formation that can be targeted for prevention,” Dr. Kamaal says.
What causes kidney stones?
“Kidney stones have a variety of causes, and it is not always possible to pinpoint a cause in every case,” says Dr. Kushal Banerjee, Senior Homeopath, Dr. Kalyan Banerjee’s Clinic. “Being overweight, lack of physical activity, not drinking adequate amounts of fluids, repeated urinary infections, taking excessive nutritional supplements, and excessive consumption of aerated beverages are some causes. Drugs like aspirin, some antacids, diuretics (drugs that remove fluid), certain antibiotics, and anti-epileptics may also cause kidney stones. A family history of kidney stones and a previous history of kidney stones also increase the risk of developing them. Certain congenital deformities of the excretory system may also increase chances of kidney stones,” Dr. Banerjee adds.
He blames an unhealthy diet as another primary reason for kidney stone formation. He suggests that dietary causes of kidney stones are easily understood and are also easy to avoid. Excessive consumption of packaged food or a very high protein diet with low fiber should be avoided. If the patient has high levels of uric acid, it is important to avoid food items like spinach, aubergine, tomatoes, etc. While it is now being appreciated that a fixed quantity of fluids should not be advised for every individual it is important not to ignore thirst. Indiscriminate consumption of supplements and ‘protein shakes’ and similar concoctions can lead to the formation of kidney stones. Staying physically active, and consuming a balanced nutritious diet while avoiding junk food can keep the risk of forming kidney stones low.
Genetics, obesity, and underlying health conditions also trigger stone formation
Dr. Kamaal explains genetic links to kidney stone formation. “Genetic links to urolithiasis have been long established in certain heritable disorders, such as primary hyperoxaluria to AGXT gene, and Xanthinuria to XDH gene. Individuals with a family history of stone formation are more susceptible, suggesting a hereditary link to this condition,” he explains. “Conditions such as hypercalciuria, hyperoxaluria, and hyperparathyroidism disrupt the normal balance of minerals in the body, increasing the likelihood of kidney stone development. Chronic urinary tract infections, cystic kidney diseases, and inflammatory bowel diseases can create an environment conducive to the development of kidney stones. Obese (BMI>30) people have RR (relative risk) of 1.44 as compared to non-obese for stone formation,” he adds.
What causes recurrent kidney stone formation?
Recurrence of kidney stones occurs in many individuals despite treatment. More than 90% of the individuals who get treated for kidney stones develop another stone within 20-25 years. Dr. Kamaal explains the reasons behind this. “Inadequate treatment can leave residual crystals, providing a foundation for the recurrence of kidney stones. Failure to make necessary lifestyle changes, such as improving dietary habits, maintaining proper hydration, and addressing metabolic abnormalities can contribute to the reformation of stones. Individuals with a family history of kidney stones may be more prone to recurrence due to inherited factors. Understanding the genetic component can aid in developing personalized preventive strategies,” he explains. “Adopting a healthy lifestyle plays a key role in preventing recurrent kidney stones. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, avoiding excess salt and sugars, and engaging in regular physical activity,” he suggests.
Kidney stones are a common health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. India, in particular, has a high prevalence of kidney stones, with 12% of the global cases occurring in the country. The recurrence rates of kidney stones are also alarmingly high, with more than 50% of patients experiencing another episode within 5 years.
The causes of kidney stones are multifaceted, and while some cases may not have a clear-cut reason, there are several risk factors that contribute to their formation. These include being overweight, lack of physical activity, inadequate fluid intake, repeated urinary infections, excessive consumption of certain medications and supplements, and a family history of kidney stones. Additionally, certain genetic factors and underlying health conditions can disrupt the mineral balance in the body, increasing the likelihood of stone development.
One major contributor to kidney stone formation is an unhealthy diet. Consuming excessive amounts of packaged foods, following a high-protein, low-fiber diet, and indulging in aerated beverages can all contribute to stone formation. Furthermore, individuals with high uric acid levels should avoid specific food items like spinach, aubergine, and tomatoes. It is important to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet, drink adequate fluids, and avoid excessive intake of supplements and protein shakes to reduce the risk of kidney stone formation.
Genetics also play a significant role in kidney stone development. Certain hereditary disorders, such as primary hyperoxaluria and Xanthinuria, have been linked to stone formation. Having a family history of kidney stones increases one’s susceptibility to the condition. Metabolic abnormalities and other health conditions like urinary tract infections, cystic kidney diseases, and inflammatory bowel diseases can also create an environment conducive to stone formation. Additionally, obesity has been identified as a risk factor, with obese individuals having a higher relative risk of stone formation compared to non-obese individuals.
Treating kidney stones is not always a permanent solution, as recurrence is common. Inadequate treatment, failure to make necessary lifestyle changes, and underlying genetic factors can contribute to stone reformation. It is crucial for individuals who have experienced kidney stones to adopt a healthy lifestyle, including following a balanced diet, staying hydrated, reducing salt and sugar intake, and engaging in regular physical activity.
In conclusion, kidney stones pose a significant health concern, affecting millions of people globally. Understanding the causes and risk factors associated with kidney stone formation is crucial in developing effective preventive strategies. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, addressing underlying health conditions, and making necessary dietary adjustments can help reduce the risk of kidney stone development and recurrence. By taking proactive measures, individuals can safeguard their kidney health and minimize the potential complications associated with this condition.