What causes kidney stones?

It is not always known what causes a kidney stone to be formed, although urinary tract infections are often linked to stone formation. Kidney stones are also known as renal calculi are common amongst people between the ages of 30 and 60 years.

Scientists do not believe that specific foods can cause kidney stones to form, although certain foods may promote stone formation in people who are susceptible. The other principle causes of kidney stones include a family history of kidney stones, kidney disorders such as cystic kidney diseases, rare hereditary diseases such as renal tubular acidosis, and certain metabolic disorders such as hyperparathyroidism.

More than half of patients suffering from kidney stones have inherited high levels of calcium, known as hypercalciuria, which causes crystals to be formed in the kidneys or urinary tract resulting in kidney stones.

Other causes of kidney stones are hyperuricosuria, cystinuria and hyperoxaluria, inherited metabolic disorders as well as gout, excessive vitamin D, and blockage of the urinary tract. Certain diuretics and antacids may also increase the risk of forming kidney stones by increasing the amount of calcium in the urine.

For further information on kidney stones click here for the latest advice from expert Urologist, Mr Leye Ajayi.

An element that forms the structure of bones and teeth and is essential to many of the body's functions. Full medical glossary
Stones that form in on organ or duct of the body. Full medical glossary
A fluid-filled, enclosed pouch developing in a bodily structure as part of a disease process Full medical glossary
Drugs that help to remove excess water from the body by increasing the amount lost in urine. Full medical glossary
A common metabolic disorder that causes attacks of arthritis, usually in a single joint. Gout is due to high levels of uric acid in the blood. Full medical glossary
A condition whereby there are excessive amounts of calcium in the urine. Full medical glossary
Excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone from the parathyroid glands. Full medical glossary
A medical condition whereby there are excessive amounts of uric acid present in the urine. Full medical glossary
Invasion by organisms that may be harmful, for example bacteria or parasites. Full medical glossary
One of two bean-shaped organs that are located on either side of the body, below the ribcage. The main role of the kidneys is to filter out waste products from the blood. Full medical glossary
Relating to metabolism. Full medical glossary
A group of disorders in which some aspect of body chemistry is disturbed. Full medical glossary
Relating to the kidney. Full medical glossary
A gland in the neck that produces hormones with a role in controlling metabolism. Full medical glossary
The channels that carry urine from the kidneys to the outside of the body. Full medical glossary
Essential substances that cannot be produced by the body and so must be acquired from the diet. Full medical glossary