Kidney stones are twice more common in males than females – and although sometimes genetic, they may be avoided through adopting a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.<\/p>\n
Kidney stones develop when urine contains high levels of crystal-forming substances, such as calcium, oxalate and uric acid, resulting in a hard mass known as a kidney stone.<\/p>
There are four types of kidney stones:<\/p>\n
In some cases, urine may also lack substances that prevent crystals from sticking together, resulting in kidney stones.<\/p>
A lack of water and an unbalanced diet comprising too little calcium and too much oxalate, may also lead to kidney stones.<\/p>\n
High oxalate levels are found in a host of common foods, which should be consumed in moderation to avoid kidney stones.<\/p>\n
Dr GF Duvenage of The Urology Hospital in Pretoria, said kidney stones are treated regularly at the hospital.<\/p>\n
Treatment includes endoscopic management with laser, or conservative management.<\/p>\n
He said common symptoms included severe lower back pain, nausea and vomiting, chills and\/or fever and frequent urination.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor or urologist immediately, for the appropriate treatment,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n