10 Causes of Kidney Stones You Didn’t Know About

Kidney stones are a painful and debilitating condition that affects millions of people each year. While there are many causes of renal calculi, some are less known than others. In this blog post, we’ll look at ten reasons for kidney stones you may not know about. From dehydration to certain medications, these surprising causes can increase your risk of developing renal calculi. Luckily, the following guide from https://greaterpittstonurology.com/ will help you learn more about them and how to avoid the condition.

Diet

The food and drink you consume can play a significant role in developing kidney stones. Overeating animal protein, especially from red meat, increases the calcium and uric acid in your urine. In turn, the process can lead to calcium oxalate stones, the most common type of renal calculus. 

Overeating sodium and not drinking enough fluids can also increase your risk for the condition. That’s why maintaining a balanced diet and drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, is essential.

Obesity

Obesity is another risk factor for developing kidney stones. Being overweight increases the amount of calcium in your urinal fluid, which can lead to stone formation. Moreover, people who are obese have higher levels of oxalate, a type of salt that helps create stones. 

This is because the fat cells in their bodies produce more of a specific enzyme that helps turn dietary oxalates into renal calculi. Besides, the risk of kidney stones increases as a person’s Body Mass Index (BMI) rises. Therefore, overweight or obese people need to try and reduce their BMI by exercising regularly and eating healthily.

Dehydration

Surprisingly, one of the primary causes of kidney stones is dehydration. When we don’t drink enough fluids, our body’s water supply is depleted, and calcium in our urine increases. This can lead to the development of stones. 

Staying hydrated and drinking lots of water is crucial to reduce the risk of renal calculi risk. Moreover, reducing sugary drinks and drinks containing caffeine is a good idea because they are more likely to cause dehydration. Typically, drinking lemon juice throughout the day can help reduce the risk by lowering calcium levels in your urine.

A Family History of Cases of Kidney Stones

A family history of the condition can increase your risk of developing it. Your risk is higher if your parents or other family members have had renal calculi. This is because they can be hereditary through the same traits that increase the risk of developing stones. Some related medical conditions like cystic fibrosis may also be passed down through families. 

Kidney infections

Kidney infections, or pyelonephritis, occur when bacteria enter the kidneys, typically through the bladder. This infection can cause various symptoms, including pain in the lower back and abdomen, chills, fever, nausea and vomiting, and difficulty urinating. Kidney infections are usually treated with antibiotics and require prompt medical attention. Risk factors for such conditions include:

·         A weakened immune system.

·         Diabetes.

·         Urinary tract obstruction.

·         Prior urinary tract infections.

Urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can significantly increase the risk of kidney stones. These infections occur when bacteria enter and multiply within the urinary tract. Symptoms of a UTI include frequent, painful urination, fever, back pain, nausea, and vomiting. 

Blockages in the urinary tract

Blockages in the urinary tract can lead to the formation of kidney stones. These blockages usually occur when an obstruction stops the flow of urine. This can be caused by a narrowing of the ureter, a structural abnormality of the urinary tract, or even a stone too large to pass through. 

Enlarged prostate

Enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly affects men over 50. In this condition, the prostate gland grows bigger, putting pressure on the bladder and ureters and obstructing urine flow. This can lead to kidney stones, as the urine becomes concentrated and filled with crystals. 

The risk for kidney stones is further increased if the person has BPH and urinary tract infections. Treatment options for BPH include medications to reduce the size of the prostate, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.

Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a rare genetic disorder that can cause the production of thick, sticky mucus in the lungs and other organs. This mucus can build up and form stones, leading to the formation of kidney stones. The thick mucus can also block or damage the kidneys, leading to further problems such as infection or renal failure. 

People with the condition are at a higher risk of developing renal calculi, so they must take preventive measures. This may include staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet low in sodium, and avoiding smoking.

Medications

Certain medications can increase your risk of developing kidney stones. These include diuretics commonly used to treat high blood pressure, calcium-based antacids, and certain antibiotics. Calcium supplements can also contribute, especially if taken in large doses. 

Why Proper Prevention is Crucial to Avoid Kidney Stones

Kidney stones is a painful and uncomfortable medical condition that various factors can cause. Luckily, knowing the causes of kidney stones can help you take steps to prevent them. Speak to your doctor if you’re concerned about kidney stones, as they can provide advice on how to best manage the condition. Remember that being proactive and making healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent the development of kidney stones.

FAQ

Can testosterone treatment improve heart health in men with low hormone levels?

Yes, testosterone treatment can improve heart health in men with low hormone levels. The male hormone helps maintain a healthy heart by increasing cholesterol levels, improving blood vessel function, and reducing inflammation. Moreover, it helps reduce risk factors for heart disease, such as obesity and high blood pressure.

How often should I check my testosterone levels if I am at risk for heart disease?

Generally, if you are at an increased risk for heart disease, your doctor may recommend checking your male testosterone levels every six months. If your levels are low, your healthcare provider can help you develop a plan to manage them.

What tests are used to diagnose low testosterone levels?

The most common test doctors use to diagnose low testosterone levels is a blood test or hormone profile. Other tests may include a physical examination and lifestyle assessment.