Healthcare providers across the country are noticing a rise in cases of kidney stones among children.
Dr. Kate Kraft, a pediatric urologist at the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, explains that kidney stones in children often stem from not drinking enough water and having a diet high in salt and ultra-processed foods.
"We're observing a steady increase in kidney stones among children," says Dr. Kraft, who heads the division of pediatric urology at Mott. "Over the past decade, there's been a 10% annual rise, indicating a significant epidemiological trend."
Dr. Kraft also notes an uptick in surgical cases related to kidney stones at Mott.
How do kidney stones develop? Kidney stones form when minerals accumulate in the urinary tract. They can travel from the kidney through the urinary tract to the bladder and may be passed out in urine. Some cases require surgery.
"They typically originate in the kidney's collecting system and can navigate down the urinary tract to the bladder," explains Dr. Kraft. "Patients may notice them in their urine as they urinate."
The primary cause of kidney stones is the buildup of minerals in the urinary tract, with most being calcium-based. When kidney stones block urinary flow, they cause pain and discomfort.
Children with certain medical conditions or those who are immobile are at higher risk of developing kidney stones due to reduced urine flow.
Left untreated, kidney stones can lead to kidney damage, urinary tract infections, and long-term kidney dysfunction.
What can parents do to help? Dr. Kraft advises promoting healthy habits at home to prevent kidney stones in children. She recommends encouraging increased water intake, reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods, and limiting antibiotic use unless necessary.
"Encouraging kids to drink more water daily and reducing their sodium intake can help prevent kidney stone formation," she suggests.
When should medical attention be sought? The most common symptom of kidney stones is intense pain, typically felt in the flank on the side where the stone is located. Other symptoms include fever and blood in the urine.
"If children experience severe pain, fever, or blood in their urine, it's important to seek immediate medical attention," advises Dr. Kraft. "Medical professionals can use imaging to diagnose kidney stones."
Patients with kidney stones may also experience frequent urination and a strong urge to urinate. Dr. Kraft recommends using ultrasound to detect kidney stones in the urinary tract.
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