Introduction

Summers in Hyderabad bring soaring temperatures, increased sweating, and unfortunately, a spike in kidney stone cases. Kidney stones are small, hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys—and hot weather is a known trigger. At Lalitha Hospitals, we frequently see a rise in patients complaining of intense abdominal or back pain during the hotter months. Awareness, prevention, and timely treatment can go a long way in managing this painful condition.

Why Kidney Stones Are More Common in Summer

Dehydration is the leading cause of kidney stones, and in Hyderabad's intense summer heat—often exceeding 40°C—people tend to sweat more and urinate less, leading to concentrated urine. This concentration allows minerals to crystallize and stick together, forming stones.

Key summer-related causes include:

• Inadequate water intake
• Excessive sweating
• Diets rich in salt, sugar, and animal protein
• High intake of soft drinks or soda

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones may not cause symptoms until they start moving inside the kidney or pass into the ureter. Common signs include:

• severe pain in the lower back or side
• Pain during urination
• Blood in urine (pink, red, or brown)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Fever and chills (if infection is present)

Who Is at Higher Risk?

• People with a family history of kidney stones
• Those who are chronically dehydrated
• Individuals who consume a high-protein or high-sodium diet
• People with certain medical conditions (e.g., hyperparathyroidism, UTIs)
• Office-goers and workers exposed to heat with low water intake

Preventing Kidney Stones in Summer

Hydration is key to prevention. Follow these tips to reduce your risk:

• Drink at least 2.5 to 3 liters of water per day.
• Avoid sugary drinks, especially colas and soft drinks.
• Cut down on excessive salt and animal protein.
• Eat a diet rich in citrus fruits, vegetables, and fiber.
• Limit oxalate-rich foods like spinach, beets, nuts, and chocolate (if you're prone to stones).
• Don’t ignore the urge to urinate and avoid holding in urine for long periods.

Diagnosis and Treatment at Lalitha Hospitals

At Lalitha Hospital, located at Gajularamaram in the heart of Hyderabad, we offer comprehensive diagnostic tools, including ultrasound and CT scans, to accurately detect kidney stones. Treatment options vary based on the size and location of the stone:

• Small Stones: Usually pass naturally with increased fluid intake and pain management
• Medium to Large Stones: May require procedures like ESWL (shock wave therapy), ureteroscopy, or laser lithotripsy.
• Recurrent Cases: Require metabolic evaluations and dietary counseling.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical help immediately if you experience:

• Persistent pain in the lower abdomen or back
• Blood in your urine
• Fever with chills
• Nausea and vomiting that doesn't improve
• Difficulty urinating

Prompt medical attention can prevent complications like urinary tract infections or kidney damage.

Final Thoughts

Hyderabad’s summer heat is not just uncomfortable—it can directly affect your kidney health. Prevention starts with hydration, smart dietary choices, and early awareness. At Lalitha Hospital, our urology and nephrology experts are here to support your health every step of the way.
If you’re experiencing symptoms or want to know more about kidney stone prevention, contact us at +91 8885552173, +91 8885552193 or book an appointment online.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and protect your kidneys this summer.