Kidney stones are one of the most common and painful urological conditions affecting people across all age groups. Yet, misconceptions and half-truths continue to surround this issue, leading to poor preventive habits and unnecessary fear. In this article, we dive deep into the most common myths about kidney stones and unveil the truths urologists at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute in Delhi want every patient to understand.
Whether you’ve had kidney stones before or just want to avoid them in the future, this fact-based, myth-busting guide will help you stay informed and protected.
Myth #1: Only Older People Get Kidney Stones
Truth: Kidney Stones Can Affect Anyone, Even Children
While it’s true that the risk of kidney stones increases with age, they can actually form at any stage of life, including childhood. In fact, lifestyle factors such as poor hydration, high-sodium diets, obesity, and genetics play a larger role than age.
According to the best urologists in Delhi, including experts at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, the incidence of pediatric kidney stones is on the rise due to processed food consumption and lack of physical activity.
Myth #2: Drinking Milk Causes Kidney Stones
Truth: Calcium-Rich Foods Can Help Prevent Stones
This is one of the most persistent myths. People often believe that calcium causes stones, especially calcium oxalate stones, which are the most common type. However, dietary calcium actually helps bind oxalate in the intestines, reducing its absorption and decreasing stone formation.
What really matters is getting calcium from food, not supplements. According to our urology team at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, consuming low-fat dairy is not only safe but also beneficial in preventing certain kidney stones.
Myth #3: If You’ve Had One Kidney Stone, You’ll Never Get Another
Truth: Kidney Stones Often Recur Without Preventive Measures
Unfortunately, having one kidney stone greatly increases your risk of developing another. Studies suggest that up to 50% of people who’ve had one stone will form another within 5 to 10 years if no changes are made.
The best urologists in Delhi stress the importance of lifestyle adjustments, proper hydration, and sometimes prescription medications to prevent recurrence.
Myth #4: All Kidney Stones Are the Same
Truth: Kidney Stones Come in Different Types and Require Different Treatments
Kidney stones vary in composition, and understanding the type is crucial for both treatment and prevention. The major types include:
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Calcium oxalate (most common)
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Calcium phosphate
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Uric acid
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Struvite (often linked to infection)
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Cystine (rare and hereditary)
A stone analysis and urine testing can guide urologists to personalize your treatment, say the specialists at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi.
Myth #5: Kidney Stones Are Always Painful
Truth: Some Stones Cause No Symptoms Until It’s Too Late
While the term "kidney stone" often conjures images of excruciating pain, many stones can remain silent until they start moving or obstruct the urinary tract. These are called “silent stones.”
Urologists recommend regular health screenings for those at risk—even if they feel fine—because early detection can prevent complications like kidney infections or damage.
Myth #6: You Can Pass All Stones by Drinking More Water
Truth: Water Helps, But Not All Stones Are Passable
Yes, hydration is key to preventing and helping pass small stones (less than 5mm). However, larger stones often require medical intervention. Depending on the size, location, and symptoms, urologists may recommend:
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Shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)
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Ureteroscopy with laser
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Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
At Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, advanced urological care ensures minimally invasive options tailored to each patient.
Myth #7: Only Men Get Kidney Stones
Truth: Women Are Also at Risk—Especially During Certain Life Stages
Historically, men had a higher prevalence of kidney stones. However, modern lifestyle changes have led to a sharp increase in kidney stone cases among women. Women who are pregnant, post-menopausal, or on certain medications may be more prone.
Delhi’s leading female urology experts at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute note that hormonal fluctuations, UTIs, and dietary habits contribute to stone development in women.
Myth #8: Spicy Food Causes Kidney Stones
Truth: Spicy Food Has Little to No Link with Stone Formation
Spicy food doesn’t directly cause kidney stones. The culprit is usually excessive salt, low water intake, or high-oxalate foods. That said, some spicy dishes contain high-sodium sauces or processed ingredients, which can indirectly contribute.
Urologists recommend focusing on a balanced diet low in sodium and rich in fruits and vegetables rather than avoiding spices altogether.
Myth #9: Cranberry Juice Prevents Kidney Stones
Truth: It May Help UTIs, Not All Stones—and May Worsen Some
Cranberry juice is widely recommended for urinary tract health, but it’s not a universal remedy. In fact, for calcium oxalate stone-formers, cranberry juice may increase oxalate levels, making things worse.
Always consult a qualified urologist in Delhi, like those at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, before relying on home remedies or over-the-counter drinks.
Myth #10: Once Treated, Stones Are Gone for Good
Truth: Without Preventive Steps, They Can—and Often Do—Return
Treatment removes the current stones, but doesn’t fix the underlying cause. If dietary and lifestyle issues are not addressed, recurrence is highly likely.
Urologists recommend a metabolic evaluation, including:
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24-hour urine analysis
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Blood tests
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Stone composition analysis
This comprehensive approach allows customized preventive plans to keep stones from coming back.
How to Prevent Kidney Stones: Urologist-Approved Tips
Now that we’ve dispelled the common myths, here are evidence-based preventive strategies:
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Drink at least 2.5–3 liters of water daily
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Limit salt and animal protein
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Include enough dietary calcium
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Avoid high-oxalate foods like spinach, beets, and nuts (if prone)
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Stay physically active
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Get routine check-ups if you have a history or family history of stones
At Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, the urology team combines dietary counseling, metabolic assessments, and advanced diagnostics to offer a holistic stone prevention plan.
Why Choose Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute for Kidney Stone Care in Delhi?
If you're searching for the best urologist in Delhi, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute stands out for its:
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World-class urology team with decades of combined experience
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State-of-the-art diagnostic tools for precise stone analysis
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Minimally invasive procedures that ensure fast recovery
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Personalized prevention plans
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Comprehensive dietary and lifestyle counseling
The institute follows a patient-first approach, ensuring that care is compassionate, complete, and tailored to each individual’s condition and risk profile.
Conclusion: Busting Myths, Protecting Your Kidneys
Kidney stones don’t have to be a lifelong problem. Understanding the facts, recognizing the signs early, and working closely with a urologist can help you prevent painful recurrences and lead a healthier life.
At Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, our mission is not only to treat but to educate and empower patients. If you or your loved ones are dealing with kidney stones—or want to avoid them altogether—consult our expert urologists in Delhi today and take the first step towards lasting urological health.
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