Health Desk. Kidney stones, commonly known as kidney stones or urinary tract stones, are a common health problem that can affect people of all ages. It is formed when some minerals and salts in the body crystallize and take a hard form. Stones can often cause severe pain, urinary problems, and sometimes even infection.

Why do stones occur?

There are many reasons for the formation of stones. Lack of water in the body, excessive salt or protein intake, obesity, irregular diet and some medical conditions like urine infection or excess of uric acid are considered to be the main causes of stones.

Main 4 types of stones

1.Calcium stones: The most common types of stones are made of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate. This mostly happens in people who consume more calcium rich diet or oxalate rich foods.

2. Uric Acid Stones: This stone is formed when the level of uric acid increases in the body. This often occurs in people who suffer from excessive non-vegetarian diet or dehydration.

3.Struvite stones: Struvite stones usually form due to urinary infection. It grows quickly and sometimes takes the form of large stones.

4.Cystine stones: This is the rarest type of stone and occurs due to hereditary reasons. These stones are formed due to high levels of an amino acid called cysteine.

Prevention and Precautions

Drink adequate amount of water throughout the day.

Keeping salt and protein intake balanced.

A balanced diet, which includes fruits and vegetables.

Consult a doctor timely for any urinary problem.