What Causes Recurrent Kidney Stones?
Last Updated: 6 March 2025
Kidney stones are a common problem, with a high incidence in industrialized countries. In addition to causing pain and discomfort, if not treated properly, kidney stones can impair kidney function, promote urinary infections, and, in severe cases, lead to kidney failure.
Understanding the causes of their formation is essential to prevent recurrences and reduce the risk of complications.
What Are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are solid formations of varying sizes, made up of minerals and other substances found in urine. When they accumulate, they can obstruct the normal flow of urine, causing abnormal kidney dilation and intense pain.
The main components of kidney stones include:
- Calcium
- Cystine
- Oxalate
- Phosphate
- Urate
- Xanthine
Why Do Kidney Stones Recur?
Recurring kidney stones are those that continue to form despite changes in diet, medication, or surgical interventions. Several factors may increase the risk of recurrence, including:
- Imbalanced diet, high in protein and low in fiber.
- Intestinal disorders or previous bariatric surgery.
- Family history, with a family history of kidney stones.
- Recurring urinary infections, which promote the formation of stones.
- Early onset, with the first episode before the age of 25.
- Chronic dehydration, which reduces urine production and promotes the concentration of substances that form stones.
What Are the Types of Kidney Stones?
The prevention and treatment of recurring kidney stones depend on the specific type of stone diagnosed. Here are the main types:
- Calcium Stones
These are the most common, representing about 80% of all kidney stones. - Cystine Stones
These are rare (less than 1% of cases) and caused by cystinuria, a genetic disorder that leads to excessive excretion of cystine in urine, favoring the formation of stones from childhood. - Struvite Stones
These arise from chronic urinary infections, often associated with inadequate bladder drainage or prolonged use of catheters. They make up about 10% of kidney stones and tend to grow rapidly. - Uric Acid Stones
These form when urine is too acidic, preventing uric acid crystals from dissolving. Risk factors include obesity, type 2 diabetes, gout, and diets rich in animal proteins. They account for between 5% and 10% of kidney stones.
What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones?
Some early symptoms of kidney stones include:
- Testicular pain.
- Painful urination.
- Persistent stomach pain.
- Pressure or pain in the lower back or sides.
- Traces of blood in the urine.
Treatments for Kidney Stones
The treatment of kidney stones depends on several factors, including the type, size, location, and duration of the stone in the urinary tract.
If the stone is small and does not cause significant symptoms, it can be expelled naturally during urination, often without pain. In these stages, the specialist may recommend drinking plenty of water to facilitate elimination and taking over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate any discomfort.
However, when the stone is too large to pass through the ureter, it can cause complications such as:
- Obstruction of urine flow.
- Urinary infections.
- Intense pain.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Fever and chills.
In these cases, it is essential to consult a doctor promptly to identify the most appropriate treatment, which may include medication or medical procedures to remove the stone.
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