Kidney stones prevention living in adults

Overview

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball.

Yes, kidney stones are fairly common. About 1 in 10 people will have a kidney stone at some point in their life.

Anyone can get kidney stones, but they are more common in adults aged 30 to 60, and men are slightly more likely than women to have them.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Severe pain in the back or side, often coming in waves
• Pain that spreads to the lower belly or groin
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Pink, red, or brown urine
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Nausea or vomiting
• A constant need to urinate

Symptoms in children

• Sharp or cramping pain in the belly or side
• Vomiting
• Blood in the urine (may look pink or cola-colored)
• Fussiness or crying with no clear cause

Symptoms in older adults

• Less specific pain, sometimes just a dull ache or discomfort in the back
• Confusion or general weakness
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Blood in the urine

Causes

Main causes

• Not drinking enough water, which makes urine more concentrated
• High levels of calcium, oxalate, or uric acid in the urine
• Certain medical conditions such as gout or repeated urinary tract infections

Risk factors

• Dehydration from not drinking enough fluids
• Obesity
• A diet high in salt or protein
• Family history of kidney stones
• Having only one kidney or other kidney problems

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe pain that prevents you from sitting still or lying down
• If you experience fever, chills, or vomiting
• If you cannot pass urine

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have mild pain that comes and goes
• If you notice pink or red urine but no severe pain
• If you want advice on how to prevent another kidney stone

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and then may order one or more tests to check for a kidney stone.

Tests that may be done

• Imaging tests like a CT scan or ultrasound to see the stone
• Urine tests to look for blood or signs of infection
• Blood tests to check kidney function and look for high levels of minerals

What to expect at your appointment

You may be asked to collect your urine for 24 hours to measure how much stone-forming substances you are passing. The tests are painless and help your doctor find the best way to treat and prevent stones.

Treatment

Treatment for kidney stones depends on their size, location, and what they are made of. Many small stones pass on their own with home care. Larger stones may need medical procedures to break them up or remove them.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of water – aim for at least 2 to 3 liters a day unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Use a heat pack on your back or side to help with pain
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed (check with your doctor or pharmacist first)
• Stay active and move around as much as you are comfortable

Medical treatments

If the stone is too large to pass, or causes pain or infection, doctors may recommend treatments such as shock wave lithotripsy (sound waves to break the stone into small pieces), ureteroscopy (a thin scope passed up the ureter to remove or break the stone), or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (a small incision in the back to remove the stone). These treatments do not involve naming specific drugs or doses – your doctor will explain what is best for you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for kidney stones. It may be considered if the stone is very large, causes a blockage, or if other treatments have not worked.

Living with this condition

After a kidney stone, focus on staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet. Most people can return to normal activities once the stone passes or is treated.

Lifestyle tips

• Drink enough water throughout the day – your urine should be light yellow or clear
• Limit foods high in salt, such as processed snacks and canned foods
• Eat a moderate amount of protein from sources like meat, eggs, and beans
• If you had a calcium oxalate stone, you may need to limit foods high in oxalate, such as spinach, rhubarb, and nuts – but always follow your doctor's advice

Diet and exercise

Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and get calcium from food (like low-fat dairy or fortified plant milks) rather than supplements unless your doctor advises otherwise. Regular exercise, such as walking, helps maintain a healthy weight and may lower your risk.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with kidney stones, especially if they come back, can be stressful or worrying. It is normal to feel anxious. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have – they can help you find ways to cope and prevent future stones.

Prevention

Yes, in many cases kidney stones can be prevented. The most important step is to drink enough water every day. Depending on the type of stone you had, you may also need changes to your diet or medicines to keep stones from forming.

Screening programmes

If you have had a kidney stone, your doctor may suggest blood and urine tests to find out why it formed. This can help you take steps to prevent new stones.

Complications

If left untreated

• A stone that blocks the flow of urine can cause severe pain and infection
• Long-term blockage can damage the kidney and lead to reduced kidney function
• Stones can also cause repeated urinary tract infections

Long-term outlook

With proper care, most people recover fully from a kidney stone. By making simple changes like drinking enough water and eating a healthy diet, you can greatly reduce the chance of having another stone. It is a manageable condition, and your doctor can guide you in staying healthy.

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