Can Kidney Stones Cause Constipation? Explore The 10 Foods To Manage Symptoms

Kidney stones are a prevalent health issue impacting millions of individuals globally. It can be quite uncomfortable and interfere with regular body processes. Although their primary symptom is intense pain in the back or side, numerous people question whether kidney stones can lead to constipation as well.

Kidney stones can affect digestion, resulting in problems like constipation, even though their main symptoms are excruciating pain, trouble urinating, and blood in the urine. This blog examines the possible link between kidney stones and constipation, highlighting their common symptoms, underlying processes, and how they may influence each other.

Table Of Contents

1. Understanding Constipation

2. What Are the Symptoms Of Kidney Stones?

3. Is Constipation Common With Kidney Stones?

4. Can Kidney Problems Cause Constipation?

5. Foods That Can Reduce Constipation During Kidney Stones

6. Dietitian's Recommendation

7. The Final Say

8. FAQs

9. References
 

Understanding Constipation

Constipation is marked by challenging or infrequent bowel movements. It can result from various factors, including diet, hydration, medication, and underlying health conditions.
 

Symptoms Of Constipation:

• Less than three bowel movements weekly. 
• Hard or lumpy stools.
• Straining during bowel movements.
• A feeling of incomplete evacuation.

Also Read: 6 Best At-Home Ayurvedic Treatment For Constipation To Give You Quick Relief!

What Are the Symptoms Of Kidney Stones?

Solid mineral and salt deposits called kidney stones form in the kidneys. These stones develop when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals and substances like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid to crystallise and stick together.

Common Symptoms Include:

• Intense discomfort in the back, flanks, or lower belly. 
• Blood in the urine (hematuria).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Urgent need to urinate or frequent urination.
• Painful urination.

Types Of Kidney Stones

4 main types of kidney stones are:

• Calcium Stones: The most common type, usually made of calcium oxalate.
• Struvite Stones: Frequently linked to infections in the urinary system.
• Uric Acid Stones: More common in individuals with high protein diets or gout.
• Cystine Stones: Rare and often due to a genetic disorder.

Also Read: Types Of Foods That Promote Kidney Health & Which Foods To Avoid During Kidney Infection

Is Constipation Common With Kidney Stones?

While kidney stones and constipation are distinct medical conditions, they can sometimes be interconnected. Let’s delve into the possible reasons why kidney stones might lead to or exacerbate constipation.

1. Pain And Immobility

Kidney stones cause extreme pain, and this may result in decreased physical activity. It is well known that immobility is a risk factor for constipation because physical activity stimulates intestinal function. Debilitating pain makes individuals sedentary, slowing down bowel motility.

2. Medications

Pain management is important when it comes to treating kidney stones. However, certain pain-relief medications, particularly opioids, are notorious for causing constipation. These medications make it more difficult to pass faeces by slowing down the gastrointestinal tract's motility.

3. Dehydration

Dehydration is both a cause and consequence of kidney stones. When the body lacks sufficient water, urine becomes concentrated, increasing the risk of stone formation. Dehydration also reduces the water content in stools, making them hard and difficult to pass.

4. Shared Risk Factors

Certain dietary habits and lifestyle choices that contribute to kidney stone formation may also lead to constipation. For example:
 

• Low Fibre Intake: Diets low in fibre are associated with both constipation and an increased risk of calcium and oxalate buildup in the kidneys.
• High Sodium Diets: Excessive salt intake can lead to water retention and reduce water availability in the intestines, contributing to constipation.
   

5. Pressure On Surrounding Organs

Large kidney stones can sometimes press against nearby organs, including the intestines. This pressure may interfere with regular bowel movements, leading to constipation.

6. Stress And Anxiety

Kidney stones can be a source of significant stress and anxiety, which are known contributors to constipation. The body’s stress response can slow digestive processes, further compounding the problem.

Also Read: Ashwagandha For Stress: Can This Ayurvedic Supplement Reduce Tension & Anxiety? Let's Find Out!

Can Kidney Problems Cause Constipation?

Yes, constipation can be exacerbated by kidney issues. An imbalance of electrolytes, such as calcium and potassium, which are necessary for healthy muscle and nerve function, including those involved in bowel motions, might result from impaired kidney function. Additionally, tougher stools and trouble passing them might be caused by kidney-related dehydration, which is a typical concern in persons with kidney difficulties.

Constipation can also be a side effect of medications used to treat kidney disorders, such as iron supplements or phosphate binders. This problem can be lessened by controlling the negative effects of medications, food, and hydration.

Also Read: 11 Best Constipation Relief Foods To Promote Healthy Digestion!

Foods That Can Reduce Constipation During Kidney Stones

Here is a list of foods that can reduce constipation during kidney stones:

• Water-Rich Fruits: Watermelon, oranges, and berries keep you hydrated and add fibre to soften stools.
• Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale are high in magnesium and fibre, aiding digestion.
• Whole Grains: Oats, brown rice, and quinoa boost fibre intake for smoother bowel movements.
• Legumes: Lentils and chickpeas provide fibre and protein for better digestion.
• Seeds: ToneOp Care’s Flax Seeds and chia seeds are fibre-rich and promote healthy bowel function.
• Apples and Pears: High in fibre for gut health and natural water content to ease constipation.
• Prunes: A natural laxative due to sorbitol and fibre content.
• Cucumbers And Zucchini: Hydrating vegetables that aid stool movement.
• Yoghurt: Contains probiotics to improve gut health and digestion.
• Bananas: Rich in soluble fibre, promoting soft and regular stools.

Also Read: 7 Common Gut Problems And How To Fix Them For Optimal Health

Dietitian's Recommendation

Kidney stones may lead to constipation as a result of dehydration, pain relief medications, or decreased physical activity. To avoid this, maintain proper hydration by consuming 2–3 litres of water each day, which additionally assists in eliminating stones. 

Emphasise a diet high in fibre that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to support consistent bowel movements. Reduce consumption of oxalate-rich foods (such as spinach and nuts) if your stones are oxalate-based, and combine calcium-rich foods with meals to lower the risk of stone formation.

Limit high salt and animal protein intake, as they can exacerbate both stones and constipation. Engaging in physical activity and consuming herbal teas such as peppermint or ginger can support digestion.

                                                                                        Dt. Akshata Gandevikar
 

The Final Say

Although kidney stones do not directly lead to constipation, the two issues may be linked via common symptoms, risk factors, and side effects of treatments. By comprehending their connection and implementing thorough management tactics, people can achieve relief and avert future issues.

FAQs

1. Can kidney stones cause gas, bloating and constipation?

Yes, kidney stones can lead to gas, bloating, and constipation. The pain associated with kidney stones can disrupt normal bowel movements, resulting in bloating and discomfort, while changes in diet during an attack may contribute to constipation. 

2. Why does dehydration from kidney stones lead to constipation?
Yes, dehydration reduces water in your intestines, making stools hard and difficult to pass. Staying hydrated is essential for preventing both kidney stones and constipation.

3. Does reduced activity from kidney stone pain worsen constipation?
Yes, reduced movement slows digestion and can cause constipation. Gentle activity, like walking, helps improve bowel motility.

References

• https://www.mobidoctor.eu/blog/can-kidney-stones-affect-bowel-movements
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314059
• https://parenting.firstcry.com/qna/q/kidney-stones-cause-constipation-4782970/amp/
• https://www.health.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0014/154301/renal-constipation.pdf
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2pk6cBsvyA
• https://maxternmedia.com/do-kidney-stones-cause-constipation/
   

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