Kidney stones in kids are one the rise, for the past 5 to 7 years, according to a pediatrician. Bruce Slaughenhoupt, UW Assistant Professor of Urology, says in the past decade the average age of children they've seen develop the condition is 10-years-old.
Dr. Slaughenhoupt says it is likely a result of not enough exercise and too much salt in the diet. He notes the modern lifestyle often involves eating processed foods from the grocery store and fast food.
For prevention, he suggests avoiding high salt foods, drinking plenty of fluids including lemonade, and exercising.
Children with kidney stones experience pain and inconvenience with treatment normally being one or two surgical procedures. However, Dr. Slaughenhoupt says the stones are rarely dangerous for kids.
