Hyderabad, April 29: As temperatures soar, doctors are reporting a noticeable rise in kidney-related ailments, with dehydration emerging as a key trigger behind increasing cases of kidney stones and urinary tract infections (UTIs) this summer.
Urologists at CARE Hospitals say the kidneys are among the first organs to be affected during extreme heat, and hospitals are witnessing more patients presenting with kidney stones, burning urination, urinary infections, reduced urine output, and severe lower back or flank pain.
According to doctors, excessive sweating during summer leads to fluid loss, and if not replenished adequately, urine becomes concentrated, creating favourable conditions for minerals such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid to crystallise and form kidney stones.
“A clear rise in urology cases becomes evident once summer begins. We frequently see patients with kidney stones, urinary tract infections, burning urination, and severe flank pain. Many assume this develops overnight, but in reality, it builds gradually due to repeated dehydration and inadequate water intake over time,” said Dr Naveen Kumar, Senior Consultant Urologist and Andrologist at CARE Hospitals, Malakpet.
Doctors note that kidney stones are already a significant health burden in India, with studies suggesting nearly 12 per cent of the population may experience them during their lifetime, particularly in regions exposed to prolonged heat.
However, specialists caution that dehydration alone is not to blame.
“Low water intake alone does not explain the entire problem. Several lifestyle and dietary factors aggravate the risk during summer, including high-salt diets, processed foods, frequent outside meals, and excessive consumption of soft drinks often mistaken for cooling beverages,” said Dr Venu Manne, Senior Consultant Urologist at CARE Hospitals.
Doctors also warn that urinary tract infections become more common during hotter months as reduced fluid intake lowers urine output, preventing effective flushing of bacteria from the urinary tract.
Women, diabetics, men with prostate-related issues, and individuals with recurrent UTI history are considered particularly vulnerable.
Another concern flagged by doctors is delayed hydration. Many people consume water only after feeling thirsty, by which time dehydration may already have set in. Experts further caution against assuming tea, coffee, aerated drinks, or packaged juices can replace water.
“Water remains the only true source of effective hydration. Excessive intake of caffeinated or high-sugar beverages can worsen dehydration and may contribute to metabolic changes that increase kidney stone risk,” Dr Naveen Kumar added.
Warning Signs Doctors Say Should Not Be Ignored
- Sudden severe pain in the lower back or flank
- Burning urination or blood in urine
- Reduced urine output
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Fever, vomiting, or unusual fatigue
- Lower abdominal pressure or pain
Doctors advise immediate medical attention if such symptoms occur, warning that delayed treatment can worsen complications and may require emergency intervention.
Preventive Advice for Summer
Doctors recommend:
- Drinking water before feeling thirsty
Carrying water while outdoors - Increasing fluid intake for outdoor workers
- Consuming water-rich foods such as watermelon, cucumber, mosambi, and coconut water
- Reducing salt-heavy foods, packaged snacks, and soft drinks
- Avoiding prolonged sun exposure during peak afternoon hours
“Most kidney stones and urinary tract infections seen during summer are entirely preventable. Simple habits such as proper hydration and timely medical attention can significantly reduce the risk of serious kidney complications,” doctors said.