What causes kidney stones?

The formation of kidney stones is mainly related to genetics, environmental factors, physiological factors, trauma and pathological factors. Prevention and treatment of kidney stones need to start from diet, lifestyle and medical intervention.

1. Genetic factors

The formation of kidney stones may be related to genetics, and people with a family history of kidney stones are at higher risk. Certain genetic diseases, such as cystinuria, can lead to high concentrations of cystine in the urine, increasing the risk of stones.

2. Environmental factors

Environmental factors include diet and climate. A high-salt, high-protein, and high-sugar diet increases the concentration of calcium, oxalate, and uric acid in urine, promoting stone formation. In hot climates, the human body is prone to dehydration, which causes concentrated urine and also increases the risk of stones.

3. Physiological factors

Physiological factors include metabolic abnormalities and imbalanced urine pH. For example, metabolic problems such as hypercalciuria and hyperuricemia can lead to high concentrations of minerals in the urine. Excessive acidity or alkalinity in the urine can also affect the solubility of minerals and promote stone formation.

4. Trauma

Trauma to the urinary system may result in obstruction of urine discharge. Urine retention increases the risk of mineral deposition and thus the formation of stones.

5. Pathological factors

Certain diseases such as urinary tract infection, hyperparathyroidism, inflammatory bowel disease, etc. may directly or indirectly cause kidney stones. Urinary tract infection changes the composition of urine, while hyperparathyroidism increases blood calcium levels and promotes stone formation.

Ways to prevent and treat kidney stones include:

Dietary adjustments: Reduce the intake of high-salt, high-protein and high-sugar foods, increase water intake, and drink 2-3 liters of water per day.

Drug treatment: Drugs are selected according to the type of stones, such as thiazide diuretics to reduce calcium excretion and allopurinol to reduce uric acid levels.

Surgical treatment: For larger stones, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, percutaneous nephrolithotomy or ureteroscopic lithotripsy can be used.

Lifestyle habits: avoid sitting for long periods of time, exercise moderately, and maintain a healthy weight.

The formation of kidney stones is the result of the combined action of multiple factors. Kidney stones can be effectively prevented and treated by adjusting diet, improving lifestyle habits and seeking medical treatment in time. If you experience severe back pain, hematuria and other symptoms, you should seek medical attention in time to avoid worsening of the condition.