Stones in juveniles no kidding matter

HEALTH

Among nephrologists, north India is known as the "stone belt" of the country, and that is not only owing to the presence of the Aravalis and the Himalayas.

Due to weather conditions, the incidence of kidney stones is higher in north India as compared to the rest of the country. And an upcoming trend reveals a greater incidence among children.

Unlike in adults, the primary cause of the formation of a stone in children is a metabolic disorder. Metabolic disorders can be of various kinds, such as hypercalcuria, where the kidney leaks calcium into the urine, primary oxaluria and cystinuria. A common mistake that parents and doctors alike make is of treating the problem while ignoring its cause.

Dr Sanjeev Gulati, paediatric nephrologist, says, "It is very important to discover the underlying cause of the problem before treating kidney stones. The chances of reoccurrence of stones is very likely unless the cause is addressed."

A common myth concerning kidney stones in children is that it is caused by the presence of excessive calcium in the body. This, however, is nothing but a myth. Removing calcium from the child's diet may, in fact, at times cause the formation of a stone.

Calcium must hence be given as per dietary requirement. The best method of avoiding kidney stones is to give the child plenty of water and avoid excessive sodium intake. Lemon juice is extremely effective since it prevents stone formation.

Stones are usually easily treated once the underlying cause of the stone is understood. Dr Arup Datta, chief nephrologist, Wockhardt Hospital, says, "The cure depends largely on the cause and size of stones. Different metabolic disorders have different cures. Moreover, if it is a big stone, the location of the stone also needs to be carefully analysed."

Though surgery guarantees removal of the stone, small stones can even be dissolved by increasing the intake of liquid in the child's diet.

While the occurrence of stones in kids may be on the rise, the situation is not alarming. Considering that the cure is quick, simple and complete, experts suggest a metabolic screening of the child once a stone is discovered. This helps in getting to the root cause and thus avoiding the reoccurrence of stones in the future.