Kidney stones can be avoided
Dr GF Duvenage of The Urology Hospital, Pretoria said kidney stones are twice as common in men than women.
KIDNEY stones are twice as common in men than women and although sometimes genetic, they can be avoided through adopting a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, this is according to Dr GF Duvenage of The Urology Hospital, Pretoria.
Kidney stones develop when urine contains high levels of crystal-forming substances such as calcium, oxalate and uric acid, resulting in a hard mass known as a kidney stone.
There are four types of kidney stones, Calcium stones, Struvite stones, Uric acid stones and Cystine stones
In some cases, urine may also lack substances that prevent crystals from sticking together, resulting in kidney stones. A lack of water and an unbalanced diet comprising too little calcium and too much oxalate may also lead to kidney stones.
High oxalate levels are found in a host of common foods which should be consumed in moderation to avoid kidney
stones.
Dr Duvenage said, kidney stones are treated regularly at the hospital.
Treatment includes endoscopic management with laser or conservative management. He said common symptoms
included severe lower back pain, nausea and vomiting, chills and/or fever and frequent urination.
“If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor or urologist immediately for the appropriate treatment,” he said.
