The formation of urinary tract stones is a common condition characterized by disturbing symptoms—painful colic, frequent urge to urinate, and the presence of blood in the urine.
اضافة اعلان
Dr. Svetlana Kalinina, a specialist in urology and andrology, outlines the main risk factors for developing this condition.
According to her, a number of factors contribute to the formation of urinary tract stones. Understanding these factors helps patients adjust their lifestyles and reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. The most important of these is insufficient fluid intake, which leads to dehydration.
She says:
"This is perhaps the most important risk factor, as insufficient fluid intake leads to a higher concentration of salts in the urine, which contributes to the formation of crystals that can eventually become stones. I recommend drinking at least 2 to 2.5 liters of clean water daily, especially in hot weather and during intense physical activity. It should be noted that sweetened soft drinks, coffee, and tea do not replace water and may actually cause dehydration."
Other risk factors, according to her, include poor nutrition. Excessive consumption of certain foods may increase the risk of stone formation. These foods include:
foods rich in oxalates (spinach, rhubarb, sorrel, chocolate, nuts);
animal protein (red meat, poultry, fish);
salt, sugar, and fructose.
She adds:
"Genetics also plays a significant role. If a close relative has had urinary tract stones, the risk of developing them increases significantly."
In addition, certain intestinal diseases, such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and bowel resection, can hinder calcium and other nutrient absorption, increasing the risk of stone formation. Chronic urinary tract infections can also contribute to the formation of struvite stones (composed of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate).
Some metabolic disorders, such as hyperparathyroidism, cystinuria (a defect in the metabolism of the amino acid cystine), and renal tubular acidosis, may increase the risk of stone formation.
She says:
"Using certain medications, such as diuretics, calcium-containing antacids, and some antibiotics over a long period, can increase the risk of stone formation."
According to her, a sedentary lifestyle plays an important role in this issue, as physical inactivity contributes to metabolic disturbances and may lead to increased calcium levels in the urine.
The doctor recommends the following to prevent urinary tract stones:
Drink enough fluids
Follow a balanced diet low in salt, sugar, and animal protein
Undergo regular medical checkups and consult a doctor if any urinary stone symptoms appear
Avoid self-medication or taking drugs without a prescription
Maintain an active lifestyle
