Top 5 Myths About Kidney Stones Busted by a Surgeon
By Dr. Rajeev Palvia | Endoscopic Surgeon
Kidney stones can be both painful and frightening but what’s worse is the sea of misinformation surrounding them. Many patients come to Dr. Rajeev Palvia, renowned Endoscopic Surgeon at Medicity Hospital, Navi Mumbai with myths that delay treatment or cause unnecessary worry.
Let’s bust the most common myths about kidney stones with facts backed by medical expertise.
Myth 1: Drinking Milk Causes Kidney Stones
Reality: This is one of the most widespread misconceptions. Calcium-rich foods like milk can actually reduce the risk of calcium oxalate stones. When dietary calcium binds with oxalate in the gut, it prevents the oxalate from being absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted into the urine.
✅ What to do instead: Maintain a balanced diet with adequate calcium from food, not supplements (unless prescribed).
Myth 2: All Kidney Stones Cause Symptoms
Reality: Not all kidney stones cause pain. Some stones are “silent” and discovered during imaging for unrelated health issues. Symptoms typically appear when stones obstruct the urinary tract or begin to move.
⚠️ Watch for: Sudden flank pain, nausea, vomiting, blood in urine, or frequent urination.
Myth 3: Only Men Get Kidney Stones
Reality: While historically more common in men, the gender gap is closing due to changing diets, lifestyle habits, and dehydration. Women are increasingly presenting with stone-related symptoms.
π Fact: The risk is influenced more by factors like fluid intake, dietary choices, genetics, and metabolic conditions than gender alone.
Myth 4: Once Treated, Stones Won’t Come Back
Reality: Kidney stones can recur, especially if the underlying cause isn’t addressed. Without preventive care, there’s a 50% chance of recurrence within five years.
π‘️ Prevention tips:
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Stay hydrated (aim for 2.5–3 litres of water daily)
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Limit sodium and animal protein
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Follow your urologist’s dietary recommendations
Myth 5: Surgery Is the Only Treatment Option
Reality: Not all kidney stones require surgery. Small stones often pass naturally with conservative treatment. Minimally invasive procedures like ureteroscopy, laser lithotripsy, or PCNL are used only when necessary.
π‘ Good to know: Dr. Rajeev Palvia specializes in advanced endoscopic techniques that offer quicker recovery and minimal discomfort.
Takeaway
Understanding kidney stone myths is the first step in proper management and prevention. Whether you're dealing with a stone or seeking preventive guidance, trust in expert care can make all the difference.
Dr. Rajeev Palvia and the team at Medicity Hospital, Navi Mumbai, are committed to providing evidence-based, minimally invasive, and compassionate care tailored to each patient’s needs.
π£ Struggling with kidney stone symptoms? Don’t wait for the pain to get worse. Get expert consultation today.
Contact Information:
π Address: Medicity Hospital, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai
π Call Us: +91-9773845101
π§ Email: info@drpalvia.com
π Website: drpalvia.com

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