Kidney stones: Symptoms, causes, risk factors, prevention, and home remedies

How to prevent kidney stones: Excessive salt can increase calcium in urine, leading to stone formation. Limit salt intake to recommended daily levels (Image: Canva)

Kidney stones develop when minerals like calcium or other nutrient deposits crystallise in the kidneys. Normally, urine contains citrate, a natural inhibitor that prevents the crystallization of calcium, thereby avoiding stone formation. However, when this balance is disrupted, stones can form.

Research points to infections or genetic factors as primary causes of this disruption. These crystals can form long before any symptoms appear, silently growing until they cause significant pain and health issues.

According to the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), small kidney stones may pass through the urinary system on their own, but larger stones can get stuck in a ureter, the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder. This can cause sudden severe pain in the flank or back, radiating to the groin (renal colic), and may lead to blood in the urine, painful urination, frequent urination, fever and chills, and nausea and vomiting.

Causes and risk factors:

Kidney stones form due to a combination of genetic, dietary, and lifestyle factors. The key risk factors for kidney stones include dietary changes such as reduced calcium intake and genetic predispositions. Dehydration, due to inadequate fluid intake, leads to concentrated urine, promoting stone formation. A diet high in oxalate-rich foods (like spinach and nuts), excessive salt, and high protein intake can increase the risk.

Certain medical conditions like hyperparathyroidism, urinary tract infections, and obesity, as well as medications like diuretics and calcium-based antacids, also contribute to stone development. Additionally, a family history of kidney stones raises the likelihood of forming them.

Treatment options:

Treatment for kidney stones varies depending on the size and type of stone. Small stones often pass on their own with increased fluid intake and pain management. However, larger stones may require medical intervention.

Medications such as alpha-blockers can relax the ureter muscles, aiding in the passage of stones. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) uses shock waves to break stones into smaller pieces. Ureteroscopy involves inserting a thin scope through the urethra to locate and remove or break up the stone. In rare cases, surgical removal is required.

Home remedies for prevention:

Preventing kidney stones involves lifestyle and dietary adjustments. Here are some effective home remedies:

Lots of fluids: Keep yourself hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to dilute urine and prevent stone formation. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses daily.

Limit oxalate-rich foods: Reduce intake of foods high in oxalates, such as spinach, beets, and nuts, to decrease the risk of stone formation.

Watch your salt-intake: Excessive salt can increase calcium in urine, leading to stone formation. Limit salt intake to recommended daily levels.

Eat a balanced diet: Ensure your diet includes adequate calcium from food sources rather than supplements, which can help prevent stones.

Increase citrate intake: Consume fruits and vegetables high in citrate, like lemons and oranges, to help prevent stone formation.

Limit animal protein: Reduce consumption of animal protein, which can increase uric acid levels and promote stone formation.

Herbal remedies: Some studies suggest that certain herbs like basil and dandelion root may support kidney health and prevent stones.

Always consult with a doctor for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions, including kidney stones.