What risk factors promote the formation of kidney stones?
January 16, 2022 | 90,00 EUR | answered by Luisa Ehrig
Dear Doctor,
My name is Uwe Schröter and I am reaching out to you because I have been experiencing increased discomfort in the urinary tract area lately. A few weeks ago, I had severe pain while urinating and it was determined that I have kidney stones. I am concerned about the causes of the formation of these stones and wonder what risk factors may contribute to it.
I am 45 years old, male, and have neglected my dietary habits in recent years. I have mainly consumed fatty and salty foods and have not paid enough attention to my water intake. Additionally, I have been under increased stress at work lately and regularly consume coffee and alcohol, which surely is not beneficial.
I am aware that kidney stones are very painful and can lead to complications. Therefore, I would like to know which risk factors may have contributed to my situation in order to adjust my behavior accordingly and avoid future problems.
Could you please explain in more detail what risk factors contribute to the formation of kidney stones and what measures I can take to reduce my risk? I look forward to your assessment and thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Uwe Schröter
Dear Mr. Schröter,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise. I am sorry to hear that you are suffering from urinary tract complaints and have already been diagnosed with kidney stones. It is understandable that you are concerned about the causes of these stones and are looking for ways to avoid future problems.
Kidney stones can be very painful and lead to serious complications. The formation of kidney stones can be favored by various risk factors, some of which have already been mentioned in your description. The most common risk factors include:
1. Diet: A diet high in fat and salt can promote the formation of kidney stones, as it can lead to an increased concentration of substances in the urine that contribute to stone formation. Inadequate fluid intake can also increase the concentration of substances in the urine and promote the formation of stones.
2. Dehydration: Inadequate fluid consumption can lead to the urine becoming too concentrated and favoring the formation of kidney stones.
3. Overweight: Being overweight can increase the risk of forming kidney stones, as excess tissue can hinder the elimination of waste products and lead to a change in metabolism.
4. Genetic predisposition: Familial predisposition can increase the risk of kidney stones, as genetic factors play a role in the processing of substances in the urine.
5. Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and stress can also increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
To reduce your risk of kidney stone formation, I recommend the following measures:
1. Dietary changes: Reduce the consumption of high-fat and high-salt foods and focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
2. Fluid intake: Drink enough water to ensure adequate urine excretion and reduce the concentration of substances in the urine.
3. Weight control: Try to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight if you are overweight.
4. Stress management: Try to reduce stressful situations and find ways to cope with stress better, such as through relaxation techniques or regular exercise.
5. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
I hope this information helps you and assists you in avoiding future problems with kidney stones. If you have any further questions or need additional support, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best regards,
Luisa Ehrig, Urology Specialist
