Is Heredity the cause of Kidney Stone?

Ever wondered if kidney stones run in your family? Well, genetics can hold some of the answers. If you have a family history of kidney stones, it’s not just a coincidence; there are actual genetic factors at play. Let’s explore the genetic felons that can increase your kidney stone risk:

* Primary Hyperoxaluria:

In this condition urine is loaded with excessive oxalate. This follows an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance where both copies of the mutated genes are needed to be present in each cell. Individuals with a single copy of these mutated genes do not show any signs and symptoms of this condition. Oxalate is a natural compound found in many foods, and when it accumulates in the urine due to deficiency of necessary enzymes, it forms crystals that can lead to the development of kidney stones.

* Cystinuria:

This is another genetic disorder where the kidney excretes too much cysteine, an amino acid, into the urine. Mutation in either SLC3A1 or SLC7A9 genes disrupt the absorption system of amino acid cystine and this surplus of cystine can aggregate and create cystine stones in our kidneys. This inheritance also follows an autosomal recessive pattern, which means the individual suffering from this type of kidney stones must possess both copies of the mutated gene in each cell. However his parents typically need not to have any signs and symptoms of this condition as they carry only one copy of that mutated gene.

* Xanthinuria:

This is a hereditary metabolic disorder. Too much xanthine in your urine due to enzyme deficiencies, stimulates crystal formation in your urinary tract. These subsequently form tiny crystals that can lead to kidney stone development. This is usually caused by mutations in either XDH or MOCOS gene. This type of kidney stone formation also follows the similar pattern of autosomal recessive inheritance.

* Polycystic Kidney Disease:

This inherited condition leads to the formation of fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. Subsequently, these cysts can disrupt normal kidney function and, over time, increase the probability of kidney stone formation. To learn more about polycystic kidney disease you can click below:

* Familial Primary Hyperparathyroidism:

This condition is a typically autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance involving an overactive parathyroid gland that produces excessive parathyroid hormone. Presence of one copy of the altered gene in each cell is enough to cause this condition. Consequently, parathyroid hormone regulates calcium levels in the body. As a result, excess parathyroid hormone elevates calcium levels, ultimately promoting the formation of calcium-based kidney stones.

* Dent Disease:

This is a rare genetic disorder primarily affecting our kidneys. It is like a calcium traffic jam within your cells and thus plays a role in the development of kidney stones due to the mutations of two genes CLCN5 and OCRL1 on the X chromosome. This disorder may be inherited or occur randomly with no previous family history. Interestingly, kidney stones due to this disease is majorly occur in men only.

So, if your family tree has a few kidney stones in its branches, it’s time to uncover the genetic secrets and pave the way for a stone-free future! You can also learn more from our you tube video in the following link:

But here’s the good news: you can play a crucial role in preventing kidney stones. By keeping your urine from getting supersaturated with these stone-forming substances, you can be the master of your kidney health. Let’s explore some strategies to keep your kidneys crystal clear! Furthermore, there’s no need for magic.

Follow these stone-prevention strategies:

• Ensure you stay adequately hydrated by drinking ample water.
• To promote kidney health, limit your sodium (salt) intake.
• Maintain a well-balanced diet that includes sufficient calcium.
• Decrease your consumption of foods high in oxalates.
• Limit your intake of animal protein and foods rich in purines.

To know more about kidney stones and its prevention

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