Are You At Risk for Kidney Stones?

You may have heard horror stories about the discomfort that kidney stones can cause, but what exactly are they? These hard deposits of salts and minerals form inside the kidneys. Sometimes they will become dislodged and pass through the urinary tract, causing a great deal of pain.

While kidney stones can happen to anyone, there are certain factors that increase your risk of developing them. Here are some of the things that can increase your risk:

Personal or Family History

If someone in your family has kidney stones, you’re more likely to develop stones, too. If you’ve already had one or more kidney stones, you’re at increased risk of developing another.

Being Obese

High body mass index (BMI), large waist size and weight gain have been linked to an increased risk of kidney stones.

Certain Diets

Eating a diet that’s high in protein, sodium and sugar may increase your risk of some types of kidney stones. This is especially true with a high-sodium diet, which increases the amount of calcium your kidneys must filter.

According to the Foundation of the American Urological Association, eating a diet with high levels of acidity or oxalates can also contribute to kidney stone formation. This includes foods like alcohol, berries, chocolate, coffee, nuts, tea and wheat bran.

Digestive Diseases and Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery, inflammatory bowel disease or chronic diarrhea can cause changes in the digestive process that affect your absorption of calcium and water, increasing the levels of stone-forming substances in your urine.

Chronic Dehydration

Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining your health. Not drinking enough water each day can increase your risk of kidney stones. People who live in warmer climates and those who sweat a lot may be at higher risk. Being dehydrated means that you produce less urine, which is necessary for dissolving the natural salts and minerals that accumulate in the kidneys.

To determine if you’re dehydrated, pay close attention to the color of your urine. Concentrated, dark-colored urine indicates dehydration.

Kidney Stone Symptoms

Here are some signs that you might have a kidney stone passing through your urinary tract according to the Foundation of the American Urological Association:

• Sharp pains in the back and side, often moving to the lower abdomen or groin. The pain may come in waves.
• Intense need to urinate.
• Frequent urination.
• Burning pain during urination.
• Urine that is dark or red with blood.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Genital pain in men