Kidney Stones in Younger Adults: What's Changed and What You Need to Know
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While men have always been at higher risk for kidney stones, age is now playing more of a role than ever before when it comes to kidney stone risk factors. More younger patients are developing kidney stones in recent years, in part due to lifestyle and dietary factors — like dehydration, increased sodium intake, excess protein from certain sources, and lower activity levels. At Kasraeian Urology, Jacksonville, FL board-certified urologists Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian and Dr. Ali Kasraeian are extremely knowledgeable and experienced in the complexities of kidney stone risks, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Keep reading to learn more about how age relates to kidney stone risks, why young people are getting kidney stones more often, how to help prevent kidney stones or lower your risk, and what treatments are available should you develop kidney stones.
What are the main risk factors for kidney stones?
Kidney stones develop when minerals and salts in the urine become concentrated and begin to crystallize. While genetics can influence stone formation, many kidney stone risk factors are tied to everyday habits and health conditions. In younger adults, these risk factors are becoming increasingly common. Some of the most well-established kidney stone risk factors include:
- Chronic dehydration
- High sodium intake
- Excess animal protein
- Low calcium balance
- Family history
Other contributing factors may include certain medications, metabolic conditions, and digestive disorders that affect how minerals are absorbed. Understanding your personal risk profile is an important first step in protecting long-term kidney health.
Why are younger people getting kidney stones more than they used to?
The rise in kidney stones among younger adults, including more cases of kidney stones in 30 year olds, is closely linked to modern lifestyle changes. Many people do not drink enough water throughout the day, especially when consuming energy drinks, coffee, or alcohol. Processed foods, which tend to be high in sodium, can further increase urinary mineral concentration.
Sedentary habits and changes in body weight may also play a role, as physical activity helps regulate calcium metabolism and fluid balance. In combination, these factors have shifted kidney stone risk into younger age groups, making early awareness and kidney stone prevention more important than ever.
How can you prevent kidney stones in young people?
To prevent kidney stones, young adult strategies often involve long-term habit changes rather than short-term fixes. The goal is to keep urine diluted and reduce the concentration of stone-forming minerals. While stone prevention strategies should be individualized, there are several general approaches that can help lower kidney stone risk in younger adults. Generally speaking, effective kidney stone prevention strategies may include:
- Consistent hydration
- Balanced sodium intake
- Moderate protein consumption
- Regular physical activity
- Targeted dietary guidance
Our team may also recommend urine testing or metabolic evaluation to identify specific risk factors and tailor a prevention plan that fits your lifestyle.
How are kidney stones treated?
Treatment for kidney stones depends on the size, location, composition, and kidney stone symptoms. While some small stones may pass on their own, others require medical intervention to relieve pain and prevent complications. At Kasraeian Urology, our surgeons offer advanced kidney stone treatments designed to be as effective and minimally invasive as possible:
Ureteroscopy allows our surgeons to use a small scope to visualize the bladder and ureter and identify the precise size and location of a kidney stone. In many cases, stones can be removed directly from the ureter using specialized instruments.
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, also known as ESWL, is a noninvasive kidney stone treatment that uses focused sound waves to break stones into smaller fragments so they can pass more easily through the urinary system. ESWL kidney stone treatment is commonly used for stones in the kidney or ureter, though it may not be ideal for larger stones.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy, or PCNL, is a minimally invasive option typically reserved for large or complex kidney stones. This procedure involves accessing the kidney through a small incision in the back and removing the stone using a thin scope and specialized tools. Dr. Kasraeian is highly trained and experienced in performing PCNL when advanced stone removal is needed.
Start a good kidney health routine early in life with advanced urology care in Jacksonville, FL
Kidney stones are no longer just a condition that affects older adults. As risk factors shift, early awareness, prevention, and expert care are essential. At Kasraeian Urology, board-certified urologists Drs. Ahmad Kasraeian and Ali Kasraeian provide comprehensive kidney stone evaluation and treatment for patients in Jacksonville, FL, with a focus on long-term kidney health. If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones or want to understand your personal risk, contact us today to schedule a consultation and take a proactive step toward protecting your kidneys for the future.