Scorching summer doubles kidney stone cases in Telangana

Doctors dub summer the “Stone Season” as kidney stone cases spike due to dehydration. Excessive sweating in high temperatures leads to fluid loss, concentrating minerals that form stones

Published May 03, 2025 | 7:00 AM ⚊ Updated May 03, 2025 | 7:00 AM

Synopsis: Scorching summer heat is triggering a surge in kidney stone cases across Telangana, with 300–400 patients daily at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology—double the usual rate. Experts blame dehydration, junk food, and sugary drinks. Alarmingly, schoolchildren are increasingly affected, prompting doctors to urge better hydration and dietary awareness amid record-breaking temperatures

The scorching summer is not just making people sweat—it’s also putting their kidneys under pressure. Doctors at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology (AINU), a major kidney related hospital in Telangana say they’re witnessing a sharp surge in kidney stone cases across Telangana, with daily patient numbers climbing to an alarming 300 to 400.

That’s a 2 to 2.5 times increase compared to the cooler months. Experts say the culprit is the intense summer heat, which causes dehydration, along with poor eating habits and lack of water intake.

“We are seeing an unprecedented rise in kidney stone cases, especially among young adults and children,” said Dr. Taif Bendegeri, Senior Consultant Urologist at AINU said in a statement. “Soaring temperatures and insufficient hydration are the main reasons. What’s worrying is how many school-going children are being affected—largely due to junk food and sugary drinks.”

Why summer is now “stone season”

Doctors often call the hot season “Stone Season” because the risk of developing kidney stones goes up significantly.

The primary reason for the surge in kidney stone cases during summer is dehydration caused by increased temperatures and excessive sweating. As people sweat more in the heat, they lose significant amounts of body fluids.

If these fluids are not replaced by drinking enough water, urine becomes more concentrated with minerals such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, which are the main constituents of kidney stones. This concentrated urine environment promotes the crystallization and aggregation of these substances, increasing the risk of stone formation.

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures not only increases fluid loss but also often coincides with lifestyle changes. People may consume more fast food and salty snacks, which further raises the risk of kidney stones due to high salt and oxalate content in these foods.

Additionally, individuals may be less mindful of their hydration needs during outdoor activities or work, especially among young adults and children who are more active in the summer.

Some studies suggest that kidney stones may begin forming during the winter when people are less active and may develop higher calcium levels in their urine. However, it is during the summer, with increased activity and heat-induced dehydration, that these stones are more likely to move and cause symptoms, leading to a spike in reported cases.

Other contributing factors include:

• High salt intake
• Low water consumption
• Diet high in processed or animal protein
• Increased consumption of junk food and soft drinks

Also Read: Amid orange alerts in 18 districts, Telangana’s action plan

Troubling trends

While kidney stones have traditionally been more common among middle-aged men, this season has seen a worrying shift. An increasing number of adolescents and young adults are being diagnosed, largely due to sedentary lifestyles, fast food, and low water intake.

• Teen and young adult cases are rising fast, with doctors attributing it to sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating.
• Children aged 10–17 are now commonly showing signs of kidney stones—a trend not seen a decade ago.
• Women report fewer cases (about 40 percent less than men), but undiagnosed stones during pregnancy can pose serious complications.
• Pediatric cases are becoming a cause of concern, especially for long-term kidney health.

“Stones are not just a problem of adults anymore. This calls for immediate awareness among parents and schools. Preventive care through hydration, diet, and early screening can make a significant difference, especially in high-risk months like summer,” said Dr. Taif Bendegeri.

Prevention starts with water

Doctors say the single most effective way to prevent stones is to stay well hydrated. If your urine is clear or light yellow, you’re likely drinking enough. If it’s dark yellow or amber, it’s a sign to drink more fluids.

AINU specialists suggests some simple steps to protect your kidneys this summer:

• Drink enough water throughout the day—aim for 2.5 to 3 litres, more if you’re out in the sun.
• Cut back on salty snacks, packaged foods, and red meat.
• Limit sugary drinks and sodas, especially for children.
• Encourage regular water breaks at school and home.
• Don’t ignore signs like abdominal pain, frequent urination, or burning while peeing—especially in kids.
• Doctors also recommend early screening and check-ups for children or adults with a family history of stones.

As temperatures continue to climb, staying cool isn’t just about comfort—it might just save your kidneys.

(Edited by Ananya Rao)