Understanding Kidney Stones_ Causes and Risk Factors
                     Understanding Kidney Stones: 
Causes and Risk Factors
What Are Kidney Stones?
● Solid accumulations of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys.
● Can cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract.
● Understanding their causes can aid in prevention and management.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
1. Dehydration
● Inadequate water intake leads to concentrated urine.
● Increases the risk of mineral crystallization.
● Prevention: Drink 2-3 liters of water daily.
2. High-Sodium, Oxalate, and Protein Diet
● Oxalates: Found in spinach, nuts, tea, and chocolate – can form calcium oxalate 
stones.
● High Sodium: Increases calcium levels in urine, promoting stone formation.
● Animal Protein: Red meat, eggs, and seafood increase uric acid, leading to uric acid 
stones.
3. Genetic Predisposition
● Family history increases risk.
● Some individuals naturally excrete more stone-forming substances.
4. Obesity & Metabolic Disorders
● Excess weight, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome alter urine composition.
● Higher risk of kidney stone formation.
5. Certain Medical Conditions
● Hyperparathyroidism: Increases calcium levels in urine.
● Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Alters calcium and oxalate absorption.
● Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Chronic infections lead to struvite stones.
6. Medications & Supplements
● Diuretics: May cause dehydration and concentrated urine.
● Calcium-based Antacids: Can raise calcium levels in urine.
● Vitamin C Supplements: High doses increase oxalate levels.
7. Sedentary Lifestyle
● Lack of physical activity increases calcium buildup in bones.
● Leads to higher calcium excretion in urine.
● Solution: Regular exercise balances mineral levels.
Preventing Kidney Stones
● Stay Hydrated: 2-3 liters of water per day.
● Adopt a Balanced Diet: Reduce high-oxalate and sodium-rich foods.
● Limit Animal Protein: Reduce red meat and shellfish consumption.
● Exercise Regularly: Maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle.
● Monitor Medications & Supplements: Consult a doctor before taking high doses 
of calcium or vitamin C.
Conclusion
● Kidney stones can be painful and recurrent.
● Understanding risk factors helps in prevention.
● Lifestyle changes can significantly reduce kidney stone risk.
● For advanced kidney stone treatment in Bahrain, visit Dr. Das Clinic – the 
best urology center in Bahrain.