Kidney Stones: The Silent Threat That Could Be Harming You

MEDİCENTER TV / TÜRKİYE

Kidney Stones Are Becoming Increasingly Common Among Women and Children

Obesity, poor dietary habits, and a sedentary lifestyle are well-known culprits behind many modern health issues—and kidney stones are no exception. Once predominantly diagnosed in men, kidney stones are now being detected more frequently in women and even children. Often progressing without any obvious symptoms, this silent condition is typically discovered during medical evaluations for unrelated health concerns. Associate Professor Dr. Mehmet Yılmaz Salman, a urology expert at Memorial Şişli Hospital, sheds light on the causes and personalized treatment options available for kidney stones.

Affects Over 15% of the Global Population

Kidney stones are a global health concern, affecting more than 15% of the world’s population. In regions with warmer climates like Turkey, the risk is even greater. Genetic predisposition, low fluid intake, high consumption of animal-based foods, salt, sugar, and oxalate-rich items significantly raise the likelihood of developing stones. Obesity and lack of physical activity are also major risk factors. Individuals with a family history of kidney stones should be particularly cautious. Notably, those who have had kidney stones before face a recurrence risk of over 50% within five years.

No Symptoms? That Doesn’t Mean You're in the Clear

When people think of kidney stones, excruciating lower back pain is usually the first symptom that comes to mind. However, not all stones cause pain right away. Many remain undetected inside the kidney for years without triggering any noticeable symptoms. The real trouble begins when a stone moves and obstructs urine flow. That’s when severe pain, blood in the urine, burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, unusual urine odor, nausea, fever, or chills can occur—often leading to emergency room visits.

Dr. Salman emphasizes that it’s not the stone itself but the blockage it causes that leads to such intense discomfort. Kidney stones begin as tiny crystals—commonly referred to as "grains of sand"—that can be flushed out with sufficient fluid intake. But in cases of anatomical kidney variations or inadequate hydration, these crystals can build up and eventually form stones.

Early Detection and Personalized Treatment Are Key

Identifying the cause of stone formation is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Stones smaller than 2 cm can often be treated using non-invasive shock wave therapy (ESWL) or a flexible ureteroscope inserted through the urinary tract to break the stone using a laser—an advanced procedure called Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS). For larger stones, a 1 cm incision is made through the back to directly access and fragment the stone. In patients with recurrent stone formation, understanding the underlying metabolic cause allows for the development of personalized preventive strategies.

Prevention Starts With Lifestyle Changes

Preventing kidney stones is entirely possible with simple but consistent lifestyle modifications. Staying well-hydrated, reducing salt and sugar intake, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight are all essential. Dr. Mehmet Yılmaz Salman advises regular kidney screenings, especially for those with a personal or family history of stones. “Kidney stones are not just a source of pain; if left untreated, they can lead to permanent kidney damage. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are vital,” he warns.

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