Did you know that there is a possibility of kidney stones causing diarrhoea?

Curious about how kidney stones can cause diarrhoea? Want to know what leads to the situation and how it can be treated?

Mykare Health is here to provide you with an insight into the connection between kidney stones and diarrhoea.

What are kidney stones?

Let’s do a quick recap of what kidney stones are before we talk about their link with diarrhoea.

Kidney stones are solid deposits which form in the kidneys, when some substances get accumulated in the urine crystallise. They are of variable sizes.

Over time, these crystals can combine to form stones of varying sizes. Understanding the key aspects of kidney stones involves considering their formation, composition, risk factors, and potential impact on health.

Symptoms Of Kidney Stones

What are some common symptoms of kidney stones? Here you go

• Severe Pain.

• Changes in the colour of urine.

• Nausea and vomiting.

• Blood in Urine.

• Cloudy or foul smell urine.

• Blockage of urinary tract.

Learn More About Kidney Stone Treatment

Can Diarrhoea Be Associated With Kidney Stone Formation?

The answer is yes. Diarrhoea can be associated with kidney stones in some cases. Several factors can contribute to this gastrointestinal symptom in individuals with kidney stones.

The intense pain caused by kidney stones can stimulate the nervous system, triggering a response that affects various bodily functions, including bowel movements and digestion. This can result in diarrhoea.

Kidney stones, particularly if they cause a blockage or lead to urinary tract infections, can induce inflammation. Inflammatory processes in the body may affect the digestive system and contribute to diarrhoea.

Dehydration, Kidney Stones & Diarrhoea

Dehydration plays a crucial role in the formation and release of kidney stones, which increases the risk of Diarrhoea. The link between dehydration and kidney stones is rooted in the concentration of minerals and salts in the urine, a process influenced by the body’s hydration status.

How does dehydration affect our body and formation of kidney stones?

When the body is dehydrated, there is a reduced volume of urine production. As a result, the minerals and salts present in the urine become more concentrated.

Higher concentrations of substances like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid in the urine can promote the formation of crystals. These crystals may get aggregated and form kidney stones.

Dehydration can lead to decreased urinary flow. Slower urine movement allows more time for crystals to come together and develop into larger stones.

Adequate hydration is essential for the kidneys to effectively flush out waste products and excess minerals. Insufficient water intake compromises this natural flushing process, making it easier for stones to form.

When To Seek Medical Attention

You should immediately seek medical advice if you suffer from any of these symptoms:

• Intense, persistent pain in the back, side, lower abdomen, or groin is a hallmark symptom of kidney stones.

• Blood in Urine.

• Difficulty urinating.

• Fever and chills.

Treatment And Prevention

Treatment plans may be introduced by your healthcare provider, depending on the severity of your kidney stone.

What are the treatment and prevention plans if you have kidney stones?

• Prescription of pain medications can help manage the intense pain associated with kidney stones.

• Adequate fluid intake is needed to prevent the concentration of minerals in the urine. Water is the best choice to maintain proper hydration and reduce the risk of stone formation.

• Medications may be prescribed to relax the muscles in the ureter, helping the passage of small stones.

• Depending on the type of kidney stones, dietary modifications may be prescribed.

For example, reducing intake of oxalate-rich foods, limiting sodium, and maintaining a balanced diet can help prevent stone recurrence.

In cases where calcium oxalate stones are a concern, healthcare providers may provide guidance on managing calcium and vitamin D intake through diet and supplements.

All these measures can subsequently prevent kidney stones induced Diarrhoea.

Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Ensure that you take adequate fluid intake to maintain proper hydration.

• Take enough calcium to ensure good kidney health.

• Reduce intake of foods high in oxalates, which can contribute to calcium oxalate stone formation.

• Limit sodium intake to help prevent calcium-containing stones.

• Limit Sugar and High-Fructose Corn Syrup.

• Maintain a healthy weight.