Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals that form inside your kidneys. They can range in size from a grain of salt to a golf ball. Kidney stones are quite common, and they can be painful to pass.

Certain groups of people are more likely to develop kidney stones than others. Let’s take a closer look at who is most likely to develop kidney stones.

People with a Family History of Kidney Stones

If someone in your family has had kidney stones, then you are more likely to develop them as well. There is a genetic component to the risk of developing kidney stones.

If you have a family history of kidney stones, talk to your doctor about ways to lower your risk.

People who are Overweight or Obese

Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of developing kidney stones.

The reasons for this are not entirely clear, but it may have to do with the way that extra weight affects hormone levels or the way that the body processes certain substances that can contribute to stone formation.

People who Don’t Drink Enough Water

Dehydration is a major risk factor for kidney stone formation. When you’re dehydrated, your urine becomes more concentrated with mineral salts and other substances that can form stones.

People who live in hot, dry climates or who exercise vigorously without drinking enough water are especially at risk.

People with Certain Medical Conditions

Some medical conditions can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. For example:.

Cystic fibrosis
Dent’s disease
Hyperparathyroidism
Gout
Inflammatory bowel disease

If you have one of these conditions, talk to your doctor about ways to lower your risk of developing kidney stones.

People who Consume a High-salt Diet

Diets high in sodium can increase the amount of calcium that gets excreted in the urine, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. People who eat a lot of processed foods or who add salt to their meals are at higher risk.

Cutting back on salt and eating more fresh fruits and vegetables can help reduce your risk of developing kidney stones.

People who Consume a High-protein Diet

Diets high in protein, especially animal protein, can increase the amount of uric acid in the urine, which can lead to the formation of stones. People who eat a lot of meat, fish, and poultry may have a higher risk of developing kidney stones.

Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables can help reduce your risk.

People who Take Certain Medications

Some medications can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. For example, diuretics, which are often used to treat high blood pressure, can increase the concentration of minerals in the urine.

Taking too much vitamin D or calcium supplements can also increase the risk. If you take any medications, talk to your doctor about how they may affect your risk of developing kidney stones.

People who Have Had a Kidney Stone Before

People who have had a kidney stone in the past are more likely to develop another one. Once you’ve had a kidney stone, it’s important to take steps to prevent future stones from forming.

This may include drinking more water, changing your diet, taking certain medications, or undergoing certain procedures.

People who Don’t Get Enough Exercise

Physical activity is important for maintaining overall health, but it may also help prevent kidney stones. Exercise can help regulate hormone levels and prevent the concentration of mineral salts in the urine.

People who live a sedentary lifestyle may have a higher risk of developing kidney stones.

People who Smoke or Use Tobacco Products

Smoking and other tobacco use can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. The chemicals in tobacco can disrupt the body’s natural processes and increase the concentration of minerals in the urine.

Quitting smoking or using tobacco products can help reduce your risk of developing kidney stones.