According to Dr. Amit Kumar, Director and Head of Nephrology, SHALBY Sanar International Hospital, Gurugram (India), winter can increase the risk of kidney stone formation due to several lifestyle and physiological factors. The main reasons include:
Reduced physical activity: Winter makes people less active, which can slow down digestion and bowel movements, making it easier for kidney stones to form. Lack of movement can also affect urine flow, increasing the risk of stone formation.
Dehydration: During the winter, people tend to drink less water and easily underestimate their body's hydration needs. This causes urine to become concentrated, creating a favorable environment for kidney stone formation.
Improper diet: Excessive consumption of foods containing oxalates and proteins such as nuts, peanuts, spinach, red meat, chicken, cheese and dairy products can contribute to an increased risk of kidney stones in winter. These foods can easily lead to excess substances that can form kidney stones.
Therefore, Dr. Kumar recommends that people pay attention to their lifestyle, diet and water intake during winter to minimize the risk of kidney stones.
Symptoms of kidney stones
Kidney stones can present with a variety of symptoms, including:
Sharp pain in the back, hips, and groin: The pain is usually felt in the lower back, and may radiate to the hips or groin.
Nausea and vomiting: Feeling nauseous and possibly vomiting is common due to kidney stones.
Red or brown blood in urine: Urine can turn red or brown due to the presence of blood in it.
Blockage in urine flow: Stones can block the flow of urine, making it difficult to urinate.
Painful urination: A burning or uncomfortable feeling while urinating is a sign of kidney stones.
How to prevent kidney stones
To prevent kidney stones, you can apply the following measures:
Drink enough water: Try to drink 2-3 liters of water per day to dilute urine and reduce the risk of stone formation.
Balanced diet: Limit foods high in sugar, sodium, oxalate and animal protein such as red meat and chicken.
Exercise regularly: Helps improve digestion and maintain healthy urine flow.
Weight control: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce your risk of kidney stones.
Limit calcium supplements: Avoid taking too much calcium, consult your doctor to suit your body's needs.
These habits will help reduce your risk of kidney stones and improve your health.
