Kidney stone disease can be both a terrifying a painful experience. While there is no exact cause of kidney stones, there a number of genetic and lifestyle risk factors that contribute to kidney stone formation. Understanding such factors can help those at risk for developing kidney stones prevent this condition.
Age, Sex and Race
The National Institutes of Diabetes and Dietary and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) explains that white males older than 50 are most at risk for developing kidney stones. The reasons for this increased risk are largely unknown.
Personal and Family History
Personal history is a substantial factor in kidney stone risk. According to the Mayo Clinic individuals who have had a kidney stone are at an increased risk for developing another stone in their lifetime. Family history and genetics also play a role in risk as individuals with a family history of kidney stones are at greater risk for also developing kidney stones.
Diabetes and Obesity
Many kidney stones are brought on by high levels of acid in the urinary system. The NIDDK and the Mayo Clinic explain that diabetics and obese individuals are at an increased risk for developing kidney stones as they typically have acidic urine as a result of insulin resistance.
Dehydration
Many kidney stone patients are found to have a build up of calcium in their kidneys and urinary tract that may be the result of not drinking enough fluids. The NIDDK recommends that individuals at risk for kidney stones drink at least 12 glasses of water per day to flush out any excess calcium from the urinary tract. Increasing fluids will also help to reduce urine acidity.
Calcium Intake
Most kidney stones are made out of calcium which builds up in the kidneys or urinary tract. Interestingly, the NIDDK explains that diets low in calcium-containing foods can increase risk for developing kidney stones. The use of calcium supplements, however, can increase kidney stone risk and should be avoided by those at risk for kidney stones.
Dietary Oxalate
A number of dietary factors can increase kidney stone risk. Many kidney stones contain oxalate, a compound found in foods such as spinach, beets, chard, squash, soy crackers, chocolate and some teas. The NIDDK recommends that those at risk for kidney stones limit intake of oxalate-containing foods.
