What causes kidney stones and what to do about them?
What causes kidney stones and what to do about them?
Cystinuria is a genetic condition. It results in high levels of cystine (an amino acid) in the urine, which then forms into kidney stones. Most cystine stones can be managed by increasing hydration and medications that change the pH of the urine. If that isn’t enough to control stones, then another medication can be added.
What foods are most likely to cause kidney stones?
Most kidney stones are made from calcium, in the form of calcium oxalate. There are two kinds of calcium stones: Calcium oxalate. Oxalate is a substance made daily by your liver. Some fruits and vegetables, as well as nuts and chocolate, are high in it. Your body absorbs the substance when you eat these foods.
Why do obese people get more kidney stones?
Bowel problems can give you diarrhea, so you make less pee. Your body may absorb extra oxalate from the intestine, so more gets in your urine. You’re almost twice as likely to get a kidney stone if you’re obese. That’s when your body mass index is 30 or above. If you’re 5 feet 10 inches tall, obesity starts at 210 pounds.
Can a kidney stone be caused by gout?
Uric acid stones can form if there’s a large amount of acid in your urine. They may be caused by: eating a high-protein diet that includes lots of meat. a condition such as gout that prevents the body breaking down certain chemicals.
What foods can cause kidney stones?
Some foods may lead to kidney stones: Foods with less water. Foods with high oxalic acid including chocolate, spinach, parsley, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, collards, eggplant, beets, celery, summer squash, refried beans, swiss chard, almonds.
What is the best drink if you have kidney stones?
It is high in oxalates, which increases the risk of developing calcium oxalate kidney stones. The best drinks for kidney stones include plain water and juices rich in citric acid (such as lemon, orange or melon juice). In any case, if you think you may have a kidney stone, see your doctor as soon as possible.
How do I know if I have kidney stones?
Because kidney stones can affect just about anyone, it’s important to know the signs of this common condition. They might include: Pain in your back or side. Pain that moves into your lower belly. Lots of urinating. Pain while you pee. Urine that is cloudy or is pink, red, or brown.
What are the risks of kidney stones?
Kidney stones are associated with an increased risk of papillary renal cell carcinoma and upper tract urothelial carcinoma. Kidney stones are associated with an increased risk of papillary renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC), according to investigators.