The occurrence of kidney stones is often closely related to various factors such as daily habits and diet. When individuals are consistently exposed to high-risk pathogenic factors, they become more susceptible to developing kidney stones. For instance, improper dietary habits and a lack of water intake can both trigger the formation of kidney stones.
1. Genetic Predisposition
Kidney stones exhibit a certain degree of heritability. If direct relatives have a history of kidney stones, an individual’s risk of developing them is significantly higher than that of the general population. Moreover, if a patient has a personal history of kidney stones, their likelihood of recurrence is also substantially increased. Therefore, whether kidney stones are present in one’s relatives or if one has previously suffered from them, it is crucial to take this seriously.
It is advisable to undergo medical examinations every six months or year and to maintain preventive measures in daily life to reduce the probability of kidney stone formation.
2. Dietary Habits
Improper diet is a common cause of kidney stones. Many people do not consume enough water, sometimes drinking less than two glasses a day. Chronic dehydration increases the risk of stone formation, especially in warm climates and occupational settings where sweating is frequent, making these areas high-risk for kidney stone episodes. Consequently, the incidence of kidney stones is generally higher in the south than in the north.
Some individuals tend to consume excessive amounts of salt or foods high in protein. Additionally, they may favor foods rich in oxalates, such as chocolate, spinach, and tea, which contain significant amounts of oxalates that can bind with calcium in the body, leading to the formation of kidney stones.
3. Medical Conditions
Various medical conditions can increase the risk of developing kidney stones, including hyperuricemia, hyperparathyroidism, recurrent urinary tract infections, inflammatory bowel diseases, and chronic diarrhea. These conditions can disrupt the digestive process, affecting the body’s absorption of calcium and water, thereby elevating the risk of kidney stones.
4. Lack of Exercise
A sedentary lifestyle is strongly associated with the development of kidney stones. Regular physical activity is essential for promoting overall health and vitality. Exercise effectively aids in fat metabolism and enhances circulation and metabolic functions, allowing the body to expel harmful substances and crystals, preventing their accumulation and consequent stone formation.
Those who are inactive and overweight due to a lack of exercise may experience a decline in physical fitness, affecting metabolic functions and leading to the accumulation of harmful substances that can cause kidney stones.
5. Medication Side Effects
The use of certain medications can contribute to the development of kidney stones. When treating illnesses, it is important to follow medical advice and take medications appropriately to maximize their effectiveness and minimize side effects. However, some patients may develop kidney stones due to improper use of medications or failure to undergo thorough examinations after long-term use.
6. Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies are among the various causes of kidney stones. A balanced diet with adequate intake of essential nutrients is necessary to maintain organ health. However, insufficient intake of magnesium and B vitamins can significantly increase the risk of kidney stones.
7. Metabolic Abnormalities
The kidneys play a crucial role in the body’s metabolic processes. When renal metabolic functions are impaired, it can lead to the accumulation of minerals and oxalates in the kidneys, ultimately resulting in kidney stones.
Diseases that affect metabolic functions, such as diabetes and Cushing’s syndrome, can increase the risk of kidney stones. Therefore, it is important to actively treat these conditions when they are identified.