How are kidney stones and bladder stones formed?

The formation of kidney stones and bladder stones is usually related to factors such as genetics, eating habits, metabolic disorders, and urinary tract infections. Understanding these causes and taking targeted measures can effectively prevent and reduce the occurrence of stones.

1. Genetic factors

Family heredity is one of the important causes of stone formation. If a direct relative has kidney stones or bladder stones, the individual's risk of the disease will be significantly increased. Heredity may affect the metabolism of calcium in urine and the excretion of uric acid, thereby increasing the possibility of stone formation. If there is a history of stone disease in the family, it is recommended to have regular physical examinations and pay attention to lifestyle.

2. Eating habits and environmental influences

A high-salt, high-protein, and low-fiber diet may increase the concentration of calcium or oxalate in urine, thus forming stones. Long-term lack of water or hard water with high calcium and magnesium ion content will also increase the possibility of stone formation. It is recommended to drink at least 2 liters of water every day, and appropriately control the intake of salt, meat, and foods high in oxalic acid such as spinach and beets, and improve the dietary structure.

3. Metabolic disorders

Certain metabolic diseases, such as abnormal uric acid metabolism leading to hyperuricemia, increased risk of urate stones, hyperparathyroidism causing elevated blood calcium, and diabetes, are closely related to stone formation. For these metabolic diseases, active treatment should be carried out to control relevant indicators.

4. Urinary tract infection and obstruction

Urinary tract infection can cause bacteria in urine to decompose urea, increasing the environment for stone formation. At the same time, urinary tract obstruction such as prostate hypertrophy or tumors can cause urine retention, which becomes a breeding ground for stone formation. Timely treatment of urinary tract infection and ensuring smooth urine flow can effectively reduce the related risks.

5. Other factors

Excessive intake of certain drugs, such as vitamin C, may promote the formation of calcium oxalate stones; high or low urine pH can also affect the type of stones and the risk of formation. When using drugs, it is necessary to use them in reasonable dosages under the guidance of a doctor and adjust the treatment plan according to the specific nature of the stones.

Prevention of stones requires starting with dietary habits, physical fitness management, and disease monitoring, such as increasing fruit and vegetable intake, developing the habit of drinking plenty of water, and regular physical examinations. If stones have already formed, it is recommended to treat them under the guidance of a doctor through medication such as potassium citrate that inhibits stone formation, extracorporeal lithotripsy, or surgery such as percutaneous nephrolithotomy and cystotomy. Any treatment requires a personalized plan based on the size, location, and type of the stone.

The formation of stones is the result of a combination of factors, including genetics, environment, and metabolism, but it can be effectively prevented in most cases through a proper diet, regular work and rest, and disease management. For people who have stones or have a family history of stones, it is especially important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and have regular physical examinations.