Skeptics have pointed out the possibility of a relationship between renal lithiasis (kidney stones) and hemorrhoids, but studies on this matter are scarce. To gain a better perspective, let’s compare and contrast the two ailments.
Kidney Stones
Renal lithiasis refers to the passing of solid deposits in the urine, indicating a problem with kidney function. This painful condition occurs when crystals aggregate in the urine.
There are four major types of renal lithiasis, each grouped according to the type of stone passed and underlying cause.
– Calcium stones are the most common type, forming small, hard masses when calcium binds with phosphate, oxalate, or carbonate. Small intestine disorders contribute to this phenomenon.
– Uric acid stones are byproducts of abnormally high protein levels in the body, commonly seen in bodybuilders, but can also be a hereditary disorder.
– Struvite stones emerge from a previous urinary tract infection and often take the shape of the space they occupy. These stones can block liquid passage from the kidneys or bladder and are generally larger than the other types.
– Cystine stones are caused by cystinuria, a genetically transmitted disorder that leads to high levels of amino acids in the urine.
Hemorrhoids
This disorder involves swollen and inflamed blood vessels in the anal and lower rectal area. There are two types: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are usually painless and bleed during defecation, while external hemorrhoids are distended veins on the surface of the anus that can bleed and cause pain under friction and pressure.
The exact cause of hemorrhoids is unknown (idiopathic), but certain factors increase susceptibility, including straining during bowel movements, old age, obesity, constipation, liver disease, the use of enemas or laxatives, pressure during childbirth, or genetic predisposition.
Connecting the Dots
Despite seeming unrelated, both conditions share similar causes. Insufficient fluid intake and obesity can contribute to both kidney stones and hemorrhoids. Additionally, the use of diuretics to treat kidney stones can backfire when not properly regulated, potentially causing hypovolemia (low fluid levels), which can lead to constipation and ultimately hemorrhoids. Excessive calcium in the blood can also cause dry and hard stools, similar to how it contributes to the formation of calcium stones in the kidneys.
In conclusion, although kidney stones and hemorrhoids are not directly related, certain treatment approaches or abnormal bodily conditions can trigger both ailments.
