Dr. Niren Rao, a kidney doctor in Delhi, explains that our kidneys are the filters for our blood. They not only remove waste but also maintain our electrolytes. When kidney stones form, chemicals and minerals concentrated in urine crystallize, forming a small stone. Despite their small size, stones can grow to be an inch or larger in diameter over time.
Types of Kidney Stones
There are several types of kidney stones, each with their own distinct composition. According to Dr. Niren Rao, renowned as the best urology doctor in Delhi, understanding the various types is critical for determining the best way to treat them.
- Calcium Oxalate Stones
Calcium oxalate stones are the most prevalent type of kidney stone. They form when calcium and oxalate combine in the urine. Oxalate is a naturally occurring substance found in many foods, and when there is an excess of it in the urine, it can combine with calcium to form crystals, which then turn into stones. Calcium phosphate stones are formed when calcium combines with phosphate in urine. Dietary factors that contribute to the formation of these stones include a high intake of animal protein and acidic foods. Calcium phosphate stones are less common than calcium oxalate stones, but they still pose a risk.
- Struvite Stones
Urinary tract infections are a common cause of struvite stones. They can grow quickly and become quite large, increasing the risk of complications. Managing and preventing urinary tract infections is critical for reducing the risk of struvite stones.
- Uric Acid Stones
Uric acid stones form when there is too much uric acid in the urine. Certain medical conditions, such as gout, can lead to the formation of these stones. Dietary changes and medications may be required to prevent their recurrence.
- Cystine Stones
Cystine stones are uncommon and result from a genetic disorder that causes the kidneys to excrete an excessive amount of cystine. Individuals who have this genetic predisposition require proper diagnosis and long-term management.
What are the Main Causes of Kidney Stones?
Several lifestyle factors increase the risk of developing kidney stones. Understanding and addressing these factors is critical to lowering the risk of kidney stone formation.
- Dehydration: Lack of water in the body is a major cause of kidney stones, resulting in concentrated urine, which facilitates stone formation. Staying hydrated is essential for preventing kidney stones.
- Excessive Sodium Intake: Eating too much salty food can cause kidney stones by raising salt levels in the urine, causing the body to excrete more calcium. Monitoring and limiting salt intake can help reduce the risk of kidney stones.
- Animal Protein: Consuming a lot of meat, particularly red meat, can lead to kidney stone formation. Purines found in animal proteins cause uric acid to be released into the urine while increasing calcium and oxalate excretion. Eating less animal protein, eating a well-balanced diet, and staying hydrated can all help reduce your risk of developing kidney stones.
- Obesity: Being overweight raises the risk of kidney stones because excess body weight can impair urinary function. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and exercise can help reduce this risk.
- High Oxalate Foods: Oxalate-rich foods such as beets, nuts, chocolate, and certain berries can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones.
- Inadequate Dietary Calcium: Surprisingly, not getting enough calcium in your diet may increase your risk of kidney stones. Calcium binds to oxalate in the intestines, and if there is not enough calcium, the excess oxalate can be absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted by the kidney.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as urinary tract infections, inflammatory bowel disease, and metabolic disorders, can increase the risk of developing kidney stones.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, such as diuretics, antacids, and certain antibiotics, may contribute to kidney stone formation by altering the composition of urine.
How are Kidney Stones Formed?
Kidney stones form when substances in urine, such as calcium or oxalate, become overly concentrated, crystallizing and sticking together to form solid masses ranging in size from tiny bits to golf balls.
How Fast Do Kidney Stones Form?
The rate of kidney stone formation varies from person to person. In general, it is a gradual process that takes several weeks or months. However, certain factors, such as not drinking enough water and metabolic imbalances, can hasten the formation of kidney stones.
If one is looking for kidney stone treatment in Delhi, one can visit the Delhi Urology Hospital. The facility is headed by Dr. Niren Rao, who is well experienced in treating all urological issues. He offers various treatment options for treating kidney stones. These include PCNL, Mini PCNL, RIRS (retrograde intrarenal surgery), and URS (ureterorenoscopy).
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