Kidney stones, medically known as renal calculi, are solid masses formed in the kidneys from an aggregation of substances in the urine. These stones can vary in size, ranging from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. While the exact cause of kidney stones can vary among individuals, there are several common factors and conditions that contribute to their formation.
One of the most significant factors in the formation of kidney stones is insufficient water intake. Water plays a crucial role in diluting substances in the urine that can crystallize and form stones. When the body lacks proper hydration, these substances become more concentrated, making it easier for them to come together and develop into stones.