Kidney Stones: A Growing Concern in Belgium
18 January 2025 Kidney stones are a common and painful urological condition, affecting approximately 1 in 10 people during their lifetime. In Belgium, an increasing number of patients visit emergency departments each year due to severe pain caused by kidney stones. If left untreated, these stones can lead to kidney damage and other complications. What Are Kidney Stones? Kidney stones are solid crystals formed from minerals, salts, and acids in the urine. They can range in size from a grain of sand to, in rare cases, much larger stones that obstruct the urinary tract. Who Is at Risk? Several factors increase the risk of developing kidney stones, including: ✅ Genetics – If a close family member has had kidney stones, your chances of developing them are higher. ✅ Dehydration – Inadequate fluid intake, especially in warm weather, increases stone formation. ✅ Diet – High consumption of animal proteins, salty foods, sugars (fructose, sucrose), and processed foods can lead to stone formation....