Summer sees a spike in kidney ailments

Excessive humidity is making people lose a lot of water from the body. The kidneys are the worst affected by this very often, and  ‘kidney stones’ are an affliction many have to deal with. The Sterling Wockhardt Hospital at Navi Mumbai's Urology and Nephrology department that has studied the incidence of kidney stones in the city, say there are ways to prevent such kidney ailments.

More than 8 million people in India have a problem with kidney stones and 50 percent of them start treatment late. Most stones form due to a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Risk factors include high urine calcium levels, obesity, certain foods, some medications, calcium supplements, hyperparathyroidism, gout and not drinking enough fluids. Stones form in the kidney when minerals in urine are at high concentration. The diagnosis is usually based on symptoms, urine testing, and medical imaging.

If a stone grows to more than 5 millimeters (0.2 in) it can cause blockage of the ureter resulting in severe pain in the lower back or abdomen. A stone may also result in blood in the urine, vomiting, or painful urination. There is an increase of 20 percent in kidney related problems in Mumbai.

The way out - Stay hydrated and relieve your bladder regularly. Water is the best, but fresh juices are good too. Colas are best avoided.