Kidney stones form when urine contains more chemicals than fluid. These chemicals can form crystals in the kidneys and stick to each other. Some examples of these substances are calcium, oxalic acid, and uric acid.
The formation of kidney stones can also occur when the body lacks substances that can prevent crystals from sticking together so that the formation of kidney stones becomes easier.
Based on the constituent substances, kidney stones can be divided into four types, namely:
1. Calcium Stone
Calcium stones, usually in the form of calcium oxalate stones, are the most common type of kidney stone. These stones occur when the urine contains a lot of calcium (hypercalciuria) and high levels of oxalate in the body.
Oxalates are produced by the liver and obtained from food intake, such as certain vegetables and fruits, nuts, and chocolate.
High levels of calcium or oxalate in the urine can also be caused by the following conditions:
Eating foods high in calcium oxalate
Taking high doses of vitamin D supplements
Experiencing side effects due to bowel surgery
Taking migraine medications or anti-seizure medications
Suffering from kidney disease.
2. Uric Acid Stones
This type of kidney stone is formed due to high levels of uric acid in the urine. This condition can be caused by consumption of foods high in purine levels, lack of fluids, and a history of gout.
3. Cystine Stone
Kidney stones are one of the rarest types. Cystine stones form as a result of a genetic disease called cystinuria. This hereditary disease makes the kidneys excrete too many amino acids.
Kidney Stone Risk Factors
Although it can happen to anyone, there are a number of factors that can increase a person's risk of developing kidney stones, namely:
- 35–45 years old
- Male gender
- Not getting enough fluids in the body or being dehydrated
- Eating foods that are high in protein, sodium (salt), or sugar
- Have a family history of kidney stones
- Having indigestion
- Suffering from obesity
- Have you ever had surgery on your digestive system?
- Have certain medical conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism, urinary tract infections, or diabetes
- Taking certain medications or supplements, such as migraine medications, dietary supplements, or vitamin C
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