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Kidney Stone

We’ve all heard about kidney stones but not many of us actually know much about them. The most common misconception is that the stones come along with the food we eat. If that were true, how would we explain the large golf ball size stones that some people have? The fact is that our food and life style are the major root causes of kidney stone. Normally, urine contains substances that prevent crystals from forming. However, these do not work for everyone. The other factors that can contribute to stone formation are:

Kidneys
  • Too little fluid intake
  • Working in hot and humid conditions
  • Excessive sweating and frequent dehydration
  • Chronic urinary tract infections
  • Misuse of certain medications
  • Urinary tract blockage
  • Limited / Sedentary activity for several weeks
  • Certain genetic and metabolic diseases

A kidney stone is a hard mass that occurs when calcium oxalate or other chemicals like oxalates, urates or phosphates in the urine form crystals that stick together. These crystals may grow into stones ranging in size from grain of sand to a golf ball. Kidney stones form inside the kidneys, ureter, urinary bladder or the urethra. Kidney stones are more common in men aged between 30 and60; they account for four out of five cases

Causes and Risk Factors:
  • Too little fluid intake: Not drinking enough water can increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
  • Dehydration: Excessive sweating and frequent dehydration can contribute to stone formation.
  • Certain medical conditions: Certain genetic and metabolic diseases can increase the risk of kidney stones.
  • Diet: Consuming foods high in oxalate, uric acid, and animal protein can increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
Symptoms:
  • Severe pain: Pain in the kidneys, lower abdomen, or groin.
  • Blood in the urine: Blood in the urine can be a sign of kidney stones.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting can occur due to the pain and blockage caused by the stone.
Prevention and Management:
  • Fluid intake: Drinking at least 6-8 glasses of water per day can help flush away waste products and minerals.
  • Dietary changes: Avoiding foods high in oxalate, uric acid, and animal protein can help prevent kidney stone formation.
  • Balancing nutrients: Maintaining a balance of calcium, phosphorus, and other nutrients can help prevent kidney stone formation.
Foods to Avoid:
  • High-oxalate foods: Foods high in oxalate, such as peanuts, tea, and certain vegetables.
  • High-purine foods: Foods high in purine, such as organ meats and seafood.
Treatment Options:
  • Medications: Certain types of stones may be dissolved using medications.
  • Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): A technique that uses high-energy shock waves to break down stones into small fragments.
Importance of Consulting a Nutritionist:
  • Personalized diet plan: A nutritionist can help create a personalized diet plan to prevent kidney stone formation.
  • Balancing nutrients: A nutritionist can help balance nutrients to prevent kidney stone formation.

By understanding kidney stones and their causes, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent and manage the condition.