How Hydration Impacts Kidney Stone Risk: Expert Insights
Kidney stone problems are increasing rapidly all over the world these days. Experts believe that the main cause is dehydration. When the body does not get enough water as it needs, it can cause many health problems, chief of which is the risk of kidney stones.
Kidney stones are hard layers of minerals and salts that accumulate in the kidneys. These can range from small sand particles to a large ball size. When the amount of minerals in the urine is high, it accumulates. In this condition, minerals like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid start to solidify and become kidney stones due to lack of water.
How does drinking less water increase the risk of stones?
When the body is dehydrated, the urine volume decreases and the urine becomes more concentrated. This urine contains high amounts of minerals like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, which lead to the formation of kidney stones.
How to prevent kidney stones by drinking water?
If you drink enough water, it reduces the minerals and salts in the urine, thereby reducing the chance of kidney stone formation. So it is important to drink enough water throughout the day, especially during summer or after physical activity. The body needs at least 8-10 glasses of water throughout the day. Drinking enough water reduces urination and the chance of kidney stone formation is greatly reduced.
What is the treatment for kidney stones?
Treatment of kidney stones depends on the size and type of stone. Small stones can pass out of the urine naturally without surgery, which is why drinking more water is recommended. Whereas, for larger stones, surgery is required.