The unexpected rise in kidney stones among children—once considered a condition of ‘white, middle-aged men’—is drawing attention from medical experts.
Kidney stones are solid clusters of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can range in size from small as a peppercorn to larger, causing significant pain in areas such as the back or lower abdomen. Although small stones might not present symptoms, larger ones can potentially lead to chronic kidney issues if not treated.
Even so, kidney stones are becoming an increasingly common concern, particularly among adolescents in the United States. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, there’s been a noticeable rise in cases across the board. Traditionally, men have been more prone to these stones, especially those with a family history of the condition.
Alina Fee, a four-year-old from New Jersey, had a surprising encounter with kidney stones. Despite experiencing no pain, doctors discovered three large stones, prompting a minimally invasive procedure at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Her story isn’t unique, with many children experiencing similar challenges. Alina, however, quickly bounced back, resuming her Saturday dance lessons, dreaming of becoming a ‘pink ballerina.’
Dr. Gregory Tasian, a pediatric urologist, notes that treating children with kidney stones has become a significant part of his practice. When he was a resident between 2005 and 2011, such cases were rare among children. Now, though, it’s the bulk of his work, highlighting a dramatic shift over the years. Research has shown a steady increase in kidney stones among adolescents, with the most significant rise seen in 15- to 19-year-olds.
The phenomenon isn’t just limited to Dr. Tasian’s observations. Dr. Kate Kraft from the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital also reported a 10% annual increase over the past decade. This trend is most pronounced among adolescents, particularly girls. The reasons behind this increase are still being studied, though potential factors include hormonal changes, dietary habits, and environmental shifts.
Dr. David Sas of the Mayo Clinic points out that rising cases in adolescent girls may be linked to early puberty or dietary differences between genders. The roles of high-sodium diets and insufficient water consumption are critical considerations. Indications are that sodium in processed foods might be a significant contributor. Essentially, excess salt and dehydration make it easier for calcium, oxalate, and phosphorus to crystallize and form stones in the kidneys.
Addressing the growing prevalence of kidney stones may necessitate simple lifestyle changes. This includes increased water intake and a reduction in high-sodium foods, which are often linked to processed foods prevalent in many diets today. Dr. John Wiener from Duke Health emphasizes that keeping urine diluted by drinking more water can help prevent the formation of stones.
Moreover, calcium, generally associated with strong bones, plays a versatile role. Dr. David Goldfarb at NYU Langone suggests that adequate calcium intake is paradoxically linked to fewer kidney stones, possibly due to dietary shifts away from dairy products. He also speculates that hotter climates could be a factor, though it’s not yet a major risk predictor.
While kidney stones in children, particularly adolescent girls, may seem baffling, maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring proper hydration could be key preventive measures. This simple approach aligns with overall health recommendations, potentially curbing the rise of this painful condition.
Source: Yahoo
