Occupational Kidney Stones

Occupational health is a critical aspect of one's overall well-being, and yet it is often overlooked. One such issue is occupational kidney stones. Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in the kidneys when urine contains high levels of certain substances. About one-third of all American adults are at risk for developing kidney disease. In addition to physiological causes, diet, and various genetics, certain occupations can increase an individual's risk of developing kidney stones.

The National Library of Medicine posted a research study whose abstract stated, "People whose school and jobs limit their access to fluids and adequate bathroom facilities may have higher prevalence of [kidney] stones." Some examples include athletes, teachers, nurses, surgeons, and truck drivers. Sedentary work, common in office settings, may also contribute to kidney stones by slowing down the circulation of fluids in the body. This type of kidney stone is called an "occupational kidney stone" and, while it has not received much attention or research, many doctors consider it to be a very preventable type of kidney stone.

Those in the vocations listed above are sometimes prevented from drinking enough fluids to maintain a dilute urine or may be prevented from voiding their bladder when they need to. The issues of poor access to fluids and/or to bathroom facilities pose an increased risk for kidney stone disease. In addition, these issues are exacerbated by those who work in warmer climates: dehydration is a major risk factor for kidney stone formation, as it concentrates minerals in the urine, leading to the crystallization of stones.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends "proper fluid intake, more access to restrooms, and increased use of potassium citrate may be the best options for those who encounter greater risk for stones because of their occupation."

Preventing occupational kidney stones involves addressing both job-specific risks and general lifestyle factors. Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about it. Sometimes potassium citrate is prescribed to help prevent and treat high acid levels in your body; this helps because some kidney stones are caused by high uric acid levels. Don't be afraid to talk with your supervisor, manager, or boss at work; proper fluid intake and more restroom access may be all that is needed. Ultimately, a proactive approach to occupational health can not only enhance employee well-being but also boost productivity and reduce healthcare costs for businesses. When it comes to your kidneys, your best bet is to stay prepared and prevent issues in the first place. If you have kidney disease or renal failure, you are likely to need ongoing or critical care.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has identified the needs for the new field of exposomics in studying the occupational exposures that people undergo, though not from an interest in kidney stones specifically. Until newer methodologies are developed, doctors must account for occupation when seeing a patient with a new onset of kidney stone formation. A detailed understanding of a patient's access to water, access to bathroom facilities, exposure to ambient temperature, and liberties at work or school to attend to hydration and urination requirements are all necessary for understanding the causes. So While occupational kidney stones have not been widely studied yet, research is increasing. Always advocate for your health!