Kidney stones form when the urine becomes too concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. Common causes include:
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids leads to concentrated urine, increasing the likelihood of stone formation.
• Dietary factors: A high intake of salt, sugar, or protein can increase the risk of certain types of kidney stones.
• Medical conditions: Conditions such as obesity, gout, or hyperparathyroidism can increase the risk of kidney stones.
• Genetics: A family history of kidney stones can predispose individuals to develop them.
• Infections: Some types of kidney stones, called struvite stones, can form as a result of urinary tract infections.

• Severe pain in the back, side, or abdomen (known as renal colic)
• Painful urination.
• Blood in the urine (hematuria).
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Frequent urination.
• Fever and chills (if infection is present)

To prevent kidney stones, consider the following lifestyle changes:
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to dilute urine and prevent mineral buildup.
• Dietary adjustments: Reduce salt intake, avoid high-oxalate foods (such as spinach and beets), and limit animal protein if you’re prone to certain types of stones.
• Limit soda and sugary drinks: They can increase the risk of kidney stones, especially those that contain high amounts of sugar and caffeine.
• Citrus fruits: Eating more citrus fruits (such as lemons and oranges) may help prevent stones by increasing the amount of citrate in the urine, which helps prevent stone formation.

Treatment for kidney stones depends on their size, type, and location:
• Small stones: Often pass on their own with increased fluid intake and pain relievers.
• Medications: Certain medications, like alpha-blockers, can help relax the muscles in the urinary tract, making it easier to pass the stone.
• Shock wave lithotripsy: A non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to break up large stones into smaller pieces.
• Ureteroscopy: A thin tube is inserted into the urethra and bladder to remove or break up the stone.
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: A surgical procedure used to remove very large stones through a small incision in the back.