What causes kidney stones?

Nov 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Guang
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, kidney stones may be caused by genetic factors, improper diet, drug-related factors, endocrine disorders, urinary tract infections, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician. In daily life, one should maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a light diet, engaging in appropriate exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep.

Under normal circumstances, kidney stones may be caused by genetic factors, improper diet, medication-related factors, endocrine disorders, urinary tract infections, and other factors. If experiencing discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Genetic Factors

Certain inherited diseases, such as primary hyperoxaluria, cystinuria, and xanthinuria, may contribute to the formation of kidney stones. It is recommended to drink plenty of water, urinate frequently, and ensure adequate sleep. After consulting a physician, medications such as potassium sodium citrate granules or lithiasis granules may be used to alleviate symptoms.

2. Improper Diet

Long-term insufficient water intake or consumption of foods high in oxalate, sodium, animal protein, and carbohydrates—such as beets, beef jerky, fried chicken—can easily lead to kidney stones. It is recommended to adjust the diet, increase the intake of foods such as carrots, corn, and apples, and drink more water.

3. Medication-Related Factors

Some medications, such as triamterene and indinavir, contain components that can contribute to stone formation. Long-term use may lead to stone development during metabolic processes. Therefore, one should avoid medications that may cause stones or adjust the type and dosage under a physician's guidance.

4. Endocrine Disorders

Endocrine disorders may be associated with diet and lifestyle factors. These conditions can lead to elevated uric acid levels, causing abnormal uric acid metabolism and increasing blood uric acid concentration, which may result in kidney stones. Symptoms may include insomnia and skin dullness. It is recommended to follow medical advice when using medications such as modified Xiaoyao pills, Qizhi Xiangfu pills, or Wuji Baifeng pills for regulation.

5. Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are usually caused by bacterial infection and may lead to urine retention, increasing the risk of stone formation, accompanied by symptoms such as frequent urination and urgency. After consulting a physician, medications such as ciprofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, cefuroxime axetil tablets, or levofloxacin tablets may be used for improvement.

In daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including a light diet, moderate exercise, and sufficient sleep—is beneficial for preventing kidney stones and promoting overall health.