PREVENTION FROM KIDNEY STONES

1. Do kidney stones come back? How can I prevent them?

Unfortunately, kidney stones often have a tendency to come back. Many patients who have had one stone will develop another one within 5–10 years if no preventive steps are taken.

To lower the risk:

a) Fluid intake

• Aim to produce at least 2–2.5 litres of urine per day.

• In practice, this usually means drinking around 2.5–3 litres of fluid per day, more if you sweat a lot or live in a hot climate.

• Water should be the main drink.

• Sugary drinks, high-fructose drinks, energy drinks and large amounts of fizzy drinks may increase stone risk.

b) Diet

General tips (these may be adjusted according to your stone type):

• Reduce salt intake (avoid heavily salted foods, processed foods, crisps, cured meats, very salty cheeses, pickles).

• Limit large amounts of animal protein (especially red meat and organ meats). A Mediterranean-style diet is often recommended.

• Do not cut out dairy products completely unless told to do so. Normal amounts of milk and yoghurt are usually fine and may even help protect against stones in some people.

• Do not take high-dose vitamin D, calcium or vitamin C supplements without medical advice.

• Depending on your stone type, you may be advised to reduce foods high in oxalate (such as spinach, chard, rhubarb, some nuts and chocolate).

c) Metabolic assessment and medication

If you have recurrent stones, or other risk factors, your urologist may recommend a full metabolic work-up:

• 24-hour urine collection

• Stone analysis

• Detailed blood tests

Based on the results, specific medicines may be used to reduce the chance of new stones forming, for example:

• Medicines to reduce calcium leak into the urine

• Medicines to reduce uric acid levels

• Medicines to make the urine less acidic (more alkaline), such as potassium citrate

• Guidelines and trusted sources

The information on this page is based on clinical experience and on up-to-date national and international guidelines, including:

• European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines on urolithiasis (kidney stones)

• American Urological Association (AUA) kidney stone guidelines

• Patient information resources from the NHS and major teaching hospitals

This text is for general information only. Every patient is different. The best treatment and follow-up plan for you will depend on:

• The size, number, position and type of your stones

• How well your kidneys are working

• Your general health and other medical conditions

• Your personal preferences

You should always discuss your own situation in detail with a urology specialist, who can give individual advice and agree a treatment plan with you.