Kidney Stones and Hemorrhoids: Is There a Connection?

Skeptics have pointed out the possibility of a relationship between renal lithiasis and hemorrhoids. However, studies on this matter are scarce. In order to gain a better perspective on the matter, let us first compare and contrast the two ailments.

Kidney Stones

Renal lithiasis (kidney stones) refers to the passing of solid, grain-sized deposits in the urine that may indicate a problem with one’s kidney functioning. It is a painful experience that is caused by crystal aggregation in the urine.

There are four major types of renal lithiasis, each of which is grouped according to the type of stone passed and the underlying cause.

Calcium stones are the most common type that occur when calcium binds with phosphate, oxalate, or carbonate, which form a small, hard mass. Small intestine disorders contribute to this phenomenon.

Uric acid stones are byproducts of abnormally high levels of protein in the body, which is common in body builders. However, they may also be a hereditary disorder.

Struvite stones emerge from a previous urinary tract infection. Because of its tendency to take the form of the space it occupies, these stones usually appear in a stag-horn shape. In consequence, it may block the passage of liquid from the kidneys or the bladder. They are generally bigger than the other three types.

The last type, cystine stones, is caused by cystinuria. This is a genetically transmitted disorder that makes the individual excrete high levels of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) in the urine.

Hemorrhoids

In this disorder, some of the blood vessels found in the anal and lower rectal area become swollen and inflamed. There are two types: internal and external. The former refers to the collection of these varicose veins in the internal structure of the anus. These are usually painless and have a tendency to bleed upon defecation. The latter refers to distended veins that form on the surface of the anus. Friction and pressure on this area can cause bleeding and pain.

It is idiopathic in nature, meaning the exact cause of this ailment is unknown. However, the following factors increase one’s susceptibility to this condition: straining during bowel movement, old age, obesity, long standing constipation, liver disease, the use of enemas or laxatives, the pressure exerted when giving birth, or genetic predisposition.

Connecting the Dots

Although both conditions may seem unrelated as hemorrhoids involve problems with defecation whereas kidney stones are related to urination, they both have similar causes. Both can be caused by insufficient fluid intake and by obesity. However, the similarities do not stop here. The treatment for kidney stones involves the use of diuretics (drugs that stimulate urination). It is believed that poorly regulated use of these drugs may backfire and cause hypovolemia (an abnormally low amount of fluids in the body).

This, in turn, can cause constipation – a prime cause of hemorrhoids. Also, having too much calcium in the blood can cause stools to become dry and hard, the same way it causes calcium stones to form in the kidneys.

In conclusion, although the two disorders are not directly related, some treatment modalities or abnormal bodily conditions can result in some triggers of the said ailments.