Kidney Stone History and Recurrent UTIs: What's the Link?

We rarely think about all the parts that make up our body’s highly integrated systems, such as the urinary tract, until something goes awry. Only then do we realize how conditions like kidney stones, which are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys, and urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are bacterial infections that affect any part of the urinary system, are connected. 

Urologist Himansh Khanna, MD, FACS offers treatment for kidney stones, UTIs, and other conditions at Park Slope Urology in Brooklyn and New York, New York. Here, we’ll dive into the link between kidney stones and UTIs, and provide tips to help you maintain a healthy urinary tract.

The link between kidney stone history and UTIs

Understanding the connection between kidney stones and UTIs can help you take steps to protect your urinary tract health. Here are two ways the conditions influence each other.

Kidney stones may elevate UTI risk

Kidney stones block urine flow, which allows bacteria to build up in the urinary tract. Because bacteria within the urinary tract play a major role in developing UTIs, it’s not surprising that kidney stone history may increase UTI risk. 

While not everyone with UTIs has had kidney stones, many studies show a strong correlation. One study from 2021 revealed an almost sixfold increase of UTIs in people with previous kidney stones. 

Patients with urate and/or calcium oxalate kidney stones also have a much higher rate of UTIs. One possible conclusion is that removing kidney stones helps lower UTI risk.

Additionally, irritation from kidney stones may trigger an immune response that weakens your system, making you more susceptible to UTIs and other issues.

UTIs can trigger struvite kidney stones 

Bacteria play a role in certain types of struvite kidney stones. In fact, an upper UTI often causes the formation of these types of stones. 

Bacteria from a UTI creates ammonia, which makes the area more alkaline than acidic. Since struvite kidney stones flourish in an alkaline environment, they’re more apt to form. These stones can grow quite rapidly, so you need to monitor your health closely, especially if you suffer from frequent UTIs. 

How to keep your urinary tract healthy

Dr. Khanna offers practical tips for maintaining a healthy urinary tract:

Drink up

Water helps flush your urinary tract by increasing urine production. If you have kidney problems and frequent UTIs, Dr. Khanna can guide you on how much fluid is right for you.

Go with the flow

Don’t wait to urinate or move your bowels.

Eat well to stay regular

Consume plenty of whole grains, fiber-rich breads, berries, fruits, lean proteins, and vegetables for consistent bowel movements.

Treatment for UTIs and kidney stones

Dr. Khanna treats both men and women for kidney stones, UTIs, and other urological issues. If you suspect you have a UTI, kidney stones, or another related issue, contact Park Slope Urology at 347-274-8370 or book an appointment online.