What Causes Kidney Stones?

Not Drinking Enough Water

Not drinking enough water may lead to dehydration, which is the strongest risk factor for the formation of kidney stones. When insufficient amounts of fluids are consumed, the urine becomes highly concentrated, and this can cause the substances that form kidney stones to stick together and form deposits more easily. Each patient's hydration needs will vary depending on overall health status, age, climate, and exercise intensity. For healthy individuals, health organizations typically recommend between eight and 11.5 cups of fluids each day for women. Men need a recommended amount of eight to 15.5 cups per day. Fluid includes water, other beverages, and the fluids contained in foods. Hydration levels can be estimated by examining the color of the patient's urine. Individuals who are properly hydrated will have light yellow urine. A very dark yellow color generally indicates the patient needs more fluids, and urine that is consistently dark yellow may be due to medication usage. Since water intake needs can vary widely, patients should ask their healthcare provider for personalized advice. Patients with existing kidney problems may need to restrict their fluid intake.

Urinary Tract Blockages

Urinary tract blockages, also known as obstructive uropathy or urinary tract obstructions, prevent normal urinary flow. Instead of flowing from the kidneys to the bladder, urinary tract blockages cause urine to flow backward into the kidneys. Kidney stones trapped in the ureter can cause these blockages, and they might also be caused by blood clots, tumors, digestive tract diseases, and injuries such as pelvic fractures. Patients with urinary tract blockages generally report changes in their urinary habits. For example, they might have difficulty passing urine or experience a slower urinary stream than what is normal for them, and it is common to feel the bladder isn't completely empty after urination. Blood may be present in the urine. To diagnose urinary tract blockages, doctors will perform an ultrasound. Surgical procedures are used to remove the blockages, and surgical options may include the placement of a stent in the blocked kidney or ureter.