Kidney Stones

What is Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) form when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals and salts to crystallize and stick together. Stones vary in size from tiny grains to large formations that can fill the entire kidney. The four main types are calcium oxalate (most common), uric acid, struvite, and cystine stones. The UAE's extreme heat contributes to chronic dehydration, making residents particularly susceptible. Stones may pass naturally with fluids, but larger stones may require medical intervention including lithotripsy or surgical removal.

Symptoms

• ●Severe pain in the back or side below the ribs
• ●Pain radiating to the lower abdomen and groin
• ●Painful urination
• ●Pink, red, or brown urine
• ●Nausea and vomiting
• ●Frequent urge to urinate
• ●Fever and chills if infection is present

What Causes Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones form when the balance of water, salts, and minerals in urine is disrupted. Dehydration is the primary cause, especially in hot climates like the UAE. High dietary intake of sodium, oxalate, and animal protein increases stone risk. Certain medical conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, urinary tract infections, and metabolic disorders also predispose individuals to stone formation.

Risk Factors

• ⚠Inadequate fluid intake and chronic dehydration
• ⚠Hot climate (highly relevant in the UAE)
• ⚠Diet high in sodium, sugar, and animal protein
• ⚠Obesity
• ⚠Family or personal history of kidney stones
• ⚠Certain medical conditions (hyperparathyroidism, gout)

How to Prevent Kidney Stones

Drinking at least 2-3 liters of water daily is the most effective prevention, especially in the UAE's hot climate. Reducing sodium and animal protein intake, eating calcium-rich foods (which paradoxically reduce stone risk), and limiting oxalate-rich foods can help prevent recurrence.

When to Get Tested

Get tested if you experience sudden severe flank pain, blood in urine, or have a history of kidney stones. A kidney function test, urinalysis, and calcium levels help evaluate stone risk.

References & Sources

• [1]
  Mayo Clinic — Kidney StonesAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [2]
  NHS — Kidney StonesAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [3]
  Cleveland Clinic — Kidney StonesAccessed: 2026-02-24