Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, nephrolithiasis, or urolithiasis, are small, hard mineral and acid salt deposits that form inside the kidneys. This common condition affects approximately 20% of the population.
Kidney stones develop when urine components are imbalanced. Common types of stones include calcium, struvite, uric acid and cystine stones. Dehydration can lead to more concentrated urine, promoting crystallisation and stone formation. Other factors include metabolic disorders, kidney diseases, gout, inflammatory bowel disease and certain medications. Often, stones result from multiple factors in susceptible individuals.