Summer heat can trigger rise in kidney stones, UTIs : expert

Summer heat can trigger rise in kidney stones, UTIs : expert

Chandigarh 6 May ( Ranjeet Singh Dhaliwal ) : As temperatures soar across in the region, there is a noticeable surge in kidney-related ailments—particularly kidney stones and urinary tract infections (UTIs). The rising heat is directly impacting urinary health, making awareness and prevention more important than ever. Dr. Vidur Bhalla, Director & HOD – Urology at Park Hospital Panchkula said that the primary culprit behind this seasonal spike is dehydration.

“During hot weather, the body loses significant amounts of water through sweating. When this fluid loss is not adequately replaced, urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid to crystallize and form kidney stones.” At the same time, reduced water intake leads to less frequent urination, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply in the urinary tract—resulting in infections, he said.

Hospitals across India are already reporting an increase in such cases during peak summer months, highlighting the seasonal nature of these conditions. The common risk factors include, inadequate water intake, excessive sweating due to heat exposure , high consumption of salty and processed foods, increased intake of sugary or aerated beverages and prolonged outdoor activities without hydration These lifestyle habits, combined with extreme temperatures, place additional stress on the kidneys and urinary system.

Talking about symptoms,  Dr. Bhalla advised to watch out for severe pain in the lower back or abdomen, burning sensation during urination, frequent urge to urinate , cloudy or foul-smelling urine, blood in urine and fever (in case of infection) Ignoring these symptoms can lead to complications, including recurrent infections or kidney damage, he informed. Dr. Bhalla recommends drinking at least 2.5–3 liters of water daily including water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, and citrus fruits . He also advised to reduce salt and processed food intake. Avoid excessive tea, coffee, and soft drinks , maintain proper personal hygiene and seek timely medical consultation if symptoms appear, he said.