What causes kidney stones?

Several factors can contribute to the formation of kidney stones:

1. Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake concentrates urine, increasing the risk of mineral precipitation and stone formation.

2. Diet: High intake of certain dietary components, such as sodium, oxalate, calcium, and animal protein, may contribute to kidney stone formation. Processed and sugary foods, excessive salt, and certain vegetables (e.g., spinach, beets) can also play a role.

3. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism, chronic urinary tract infections, and kidney diseases (e.g., cystic kidney disease), can lead to kidney stone formation.

4. Obesity: Obesity and metabolic syndrome increase the risk of kidney stones due to various factors, including alterations in mineral metabolism and urine composition.

5. Genetics: Some individuals have a genetic predisposition to developing kidney stones, either due to inherited conditions or variations in genes that affect mineral metabolism.

6. Certain medications: Some drugs, including diuretics, calcium-based antacids, and some medications used to treat migraines, can increase the risk of kidney stones.

7. Urinary tract abnormalities: Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract, such as narrow or obstructed passages, may slow down urine flow and contribute to stone formation.

8. Chronic diarrhea or other conditions that cause malabsorption: These can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, increasing the risk of kidney stones.

9. High doses of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) supplements can increase urinary oxalate excretion, potentially contributing to stone formation.

10. Low urine volume: Inadequate urine output, such as during periods of reduced fluid intake or certain medical conditions, concentrates solutes in the urine and increases the likelihood of stone formation.