The incidence of kidney stone disease has been on the rise in the United States for 30 years. While the exact causes of kidney stones are not known, a number of genetic and lifestyle factors are associated with the development of stones. Understanding the common causes of kidney stones can help prevent this condition.
Age, Race and Gender
The Mayo Clinic and the National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) explain that kidney stones are more likely to occur later in life. The majority of kidney stone cases occur as a result of calcium deposits that build up in the kidneys over time. Older individuals are more likely to have such deposits which form the basis for kidney stones. For largely unknown reasons, kidney stones are more likely to occur in men. White men older than the age of 50 are at greatest risk for developing a kidney stone.
Hypercalciuria
Hypercalciuria is a genetically inherited condition that may be responsible for up to 50 percent of kidney stone cases. According to the NIDDK, this condition causes individuals to absorb too much calcium from food sources which is then excreted in the urine. This increased absorption of calcium can cause calcium deposits to build up in the kidneys or urinary tract. These deposits may eventually break off to form a solid stone that can travel through the urinary tract.
Calcium
Dietary calcium plays only a minor role in kidney stone formation. Interestingly, the NIDDK and the Mayo Clinic recommend that those at risk for kidney stones continue to eat calcium-rich foods, as a lack of calcium in the diet can increase stone risk. The use of calcium supplements, however, can increase the chances of kidney stones and should be avoided if a person is already at risk. Calcium-based antacids should similarly be avoided.
Dietary Oxalate
Oxalate is another component of kidney stones. Oxalate enters the body through food sources including spinach, chard, squash, soy bean crackers, chocolate and certain teas. The Oxalosis and Hyperoxaluria Foundation recommends that individuals at risk for kidney stones avoid oxalate-rich foods.
Lack of Fluids
Water or fluid intake can also influence kidney stone formation. Individuals with low hydration levels may not have enough water to properly flush out calcium and oxalate from their kidneys and urinary tract. The NIDDK recommends that individuals at risk for kidney stones drink at least 12 glasses of water each day.
