Question: My mother and uncle have both have had kidney stones. Does that mean I'll probably get them too? I'm 43, and haven't had one yet.
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Tendencies to form kidney stones are genetically inherited. But this increased genetic risk, if you did indeed inherit it, doesn't mean you are sure to experience them. Inadequate fluid intake, diuretic use, soft-drink use, and consumption of foods high in calcium or oxalates (such as tea) increases the odds of kidney stone formation.
Stay well hydrated. You should try to drink at least eight to 10 eight-ounce glasses of water daily — more if you are exercising or sweating — to increase your odds of avoiding stones. An ultrasound can turn up stones in your kidneys, if you suspect you have them.
But an ounce of prevention here will help you far more than worrying about a condition that you may be genetically predisposed to, but may never develop.
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