Why Do People Develop Stones?

There are two main types of stones: urinary tract stones and hepatobiliary system stones. Urinary tract stones include those formed in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The main reasons for their formation are as follows:

1. Excessive stone-forming substances in the urine
When the concentration of substances like calcium oxalate in the urine becomes too high, they can crystallize and form stones. In fact, calcium oxalate stones account for more than 85% of all urinary stones.

2. Reduced levels of inhibitors in the urine
Normally, certain substances in the urine prevent the formation of stones. When these inhibitors decrease, the risk of stone formation increases. For example, bacterial infections can also contribute to stone development, especially when dead bacteria leave behind materials that promote stone formation.

3. Abnormal metabolism in the body
Metabolic disorders such as excessive uric acid production can lead to uric acid stones in the kidneys. Similarly, an abnormality in cystine metabolism can result in cystine stones forming in the bladder.

In addition to these internal factors, external environmental factors also play a role. Stones are more common in tropical regions with high levels of sunlight exposure. This is partly because intense sunlight boosts the body's production of vitamin D3, which in turn increases urinary calcium levels. Moreover, excessive sweating—common in hot climates—can lead to reduced urine volume, allowing mineral salts to concentrate and form stones.

Moving to the hepatobiliary system, gallstones are the most commonly observed type. They include gallbladder stones, common bile duct stones, hepatic duct stones, and intrahepatic bile duct stones. The primary causes are:

4. Dietary habits and lifestyle choices
Modern diets high in protein and fat can increase cholesterol levels in bile, leading to the formation of gallstones. Skipping breakfast is also a risk factor, as it can cause bile to become overly concentrated and viscous, increasing the likelihood of stone formation.

5. Chronic inflammation of the gallbladder
Individuals with chronic gallbladder inflammation are at a higher risk. Repeated episodes of inflammation lead to the accumulation of inflammatory secretions in the bile, which can stimulate the gallbladder wall and contribute to the development of gallstones over time.

Understanding these factors can help individuals make informed lifestyle and dietary choices to reduce their risk of developing urinary or gallbladder stones.