Srinagar, Nov Dr Shafiq Ahmed, Consultant, Urology HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, Tuesday said, “kidney stones affect a large number of people worldwide, and 12% of the population of India, out of which 50% of people face serious renal damage. Kidney stones are formed due to the deposition of solid substances made of calcium, oxalate, urate, cystine, xanthine, and phosphate. These chemical substances sometimes migrate in areas of the urinary tract causing severe pain in the abdominal and lower back.”
Drinking water is one of the best ways to avoid kidney stone problems. As winter arrives, the weather gets cold, which reduces the intake of water due to dropping in temperature. This small environmental change increases the chances of kidney stones.
The problem
Almost 80-90% of kidney stones are the formation of calcium in the form of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate that stirs the complex systems of the organ. Our body produces more calcium in the urine in winter as compared to other seasons, which gives rise to the formation of kidney stones. In winter, the body is less active and demands less water, resulting in dehydration. Studies also show that scarcity of water in the body affects memory, concentration power, and mood while increasing the risks of chronic kidney disease like kidney stones and urinary tract infections.
When the weather shifts and becomes warm, the body then requires water due to sweating. As a result, the stone formed in winter starts migrating to other regions, prompting pain.
The solution
Kidney stones are lifestyle diseases that are associated with poor hydration and food-eating habits. In general, men need to drink 3.7 liters and women 2.7 liters of water a day to stay hydrated.
Kidney stones are easily preventable since pain can be severe and ends in other damages. A kidney stone puts pressure on the narrow ureter, which creates sudden pain and discomfort, often associated with vomiting.
There are chances of getting a kidney stone again even after treatment. To prevent the formation of kidney stones few things are recommended that might help you avoid it.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables to decrease the acid level in urine.
• Reduce consumption of sodium and food that has a high level of calcium.
• Drink enough fluid to stay hydrated.
• Consult your doctor for a diet routine if your body produces dark yellow or orangish urine.
• Cut down the consumption of tea, coffee, soda, juices, and other high sugar content.
Drinking plenty of water is a protective factor against stone formation. In winter, one can drink hot water with lemon and honey to maintain fluid levels.
