Kidney stones are a common yet painful urological condition affecting millions worldwide. While both men and women can develop kidney stones, there are notable differences in symptoms, risk factors, and prevalence between the genders. Understanding these distinctions can help in early detection, prevention, and effective treatment.

Prevalence: Are Kidney Stones More Common in Men or Women?

Historically, men have been more prone to kidney stones than women, with studies showing that men are 2-3 times more likely to develop them. However, recent research indicates that the gender gap is narrowing, possibly due to changes in diet, lifestyle, and increasing obesity rates in women.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones in Women vs. Men

While the classic symptoms of kidney stones—such as severe flank pain, nausea, and blood in urine—are similar in both genders, some differences exist:

Common Symptoms in Men:

  • Intense, sharp pain in the lower back or side
  • Radiating pain to the groin or abdomen
  • Painful urination and frequent urge to urinate
  • Blood in urine (hematuria)

Common Symptoms in Women:

  • Pelvic or lower abdominal pain (sometimes mistaken for menstrual cramps or UTIs)
  • Nausea and vomiting (more pronounced in women)
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI)-like symptoms (burning sensation, urgency)
  • Less severe pain in some cases, leading to delayed diagnosis

Women may experience atypical symptoms, making kidney stones harder to diagnose without imaging tests.

Risk Factors: Why Do Men and Women Develop Kidney Stones?

Risk Factors in Men:

  • Higher uric acid levels (leading to uric acid stones)
  • Dehydration (common in physically active men)
  • High-protein, high-sodium diets
  • Genetic predisposition

Risk Factors in Women:

  • Hormonal changes (pregnancy and menopause can affect calcium metabolism)
  • UTIs and recurrent infections (can contribute to struvite stones)
  • Lower fluid intake (due to lifestyle factors)
  • Rising obesity rates (linked to increased stone risk)

Prevention and Treatment for Kidney Stones

Regardless of gender, prevention strategies include:

  • Drinking plenty of water (2.5-3 liters daily)
  • Reducing salt and oxalate-rich foods (spinach, nuts, chocolate)
  • Eating a balanced diet with adequate calcium
  • Regular check-ups if prone to stones

For treatment, options range from medications to minimally invasive procedures like URS (Ureteroscopy), PCNL, or ESWL (shockwave lithotripsy).

Expert Kidney Stone Treatment in Pune

If you or a loved one is suffering from kidney stones, consult Dr. Irfan Shaikh, a renowned Kidney Stone Specialist in Pune at Urolife Clinic. With advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans Dr. Irfan Shaikh ensures effective and pain-free stone management.