A Shocking Case of 300 Kidney Stones Highlights the Importance of Hydration

A 20-year-old woman in Taiwan was recently hospitalized after experiencing severe lower back pain and fever. Doctors at Chi Mei Medical Centre discovered more than 300 kidney stones inside her right kidney—ranging in size from 5 mm to 2 cm. She immediately underwent surgery, and fortunately, all stones were successfully removed. After treatment, she made a full recovery.

During her medical examination, the woman admitted that she rarely drank plain water. Instead, her daily fluids mainly came from bubble tea, fruit juices, and alcohol. According to health experts, these sugary beverages can significantly increase the risk of kidney stones. When the body lacks enough water, urine becomes highly concentrated, allowing minerals and waste to crystallize and form stones. Excessive sugar, oxalates, and phosphates found in popular drinks also contribute to this dangerous buildup.

Why Kidney Stones Form

Kidney stones develop when minerals—such as calcium, uric acid, or oxalate—accumulate and solidify in the kidneys. Poor hydration is one of the biggest risk factors. When urine becomes too concentrated, it cannot dilute these minerals, leading to the formation of crystals.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and Mayo Clinic, dehydration is a leading cause of kidney stones, and sugary drinks can worsen the problem by increasing mineral saturation in urine.

The Role of Sugary Drinks

Drinks like bubble tea, sweetened juices, and soda contain:

• High sugar levels → increase calcium excretion

• Oxalates (found in tea) → contribute to calcium-oxalate stones

• Phosphates → change urine composition

These factors collectively create an ideal environment for kidney stone formation. Doctors in Taiwan and global health agencies consistently warn that relying on sugary drinks instead of water can cause long-term kidney damage.

Prevention Is Simple and Effective

Kidney stones are extremely painful, but they are also highly preventable. Doctors recommend:

• Drinking 1.5–2 liters of water per day

• Reducing intake of bubble tea, soda, and sweetened beverages

• Maintaining a balanced diet low in excessive salt and sugar

• Seeking medical help early if symptoms like sharp back pain or blood in urine occur

This shocking case serves as a powerful reminder that proper hydration is essential for kidney health. Drinking enough water daily is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent stones, protect the kidneys, and support long-term well-being.

Sources:

• Mayo Clinic

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

• Taiwan Chi Mei Medical Centre (local reports)