Answer:

Staying up late disrupts the body's biological clock, creating conditions for kidney stones to form. Studies show that the body's circadian rhythm influences the concentration of substances in urine. Staying up late can alter pH levels, making urine more acidic. This acidic environment is conducive to the formation of uric acid stones, a common type of kidney stone.

Late nights also affect the kidney's excretory function. Nighttime is when the body's organs rest and recover. Staying up late forces the kidneys to work continuously, causing stress and reducing their efficiency in waste removal. When this process is weakened, crystals can accumulate and grow into stones.

The risk of urinary tract infections also increases with late nights. Lack of sleep weakens the immune system, making it easier for bacteria to enter and cause infections. Infections not only cause discomfort but can also change the composition of urine, creating conditions for some types of stones (such as struvite stones) to form and develop rapidly.

Many people also drink less water to avoid nighttime urination. When the body is dehydrated, urine becomes more concentrated. Minerals like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, instead of being dissolved and eliminated, crystallize and precipitate, creating an environment for stones to form.

Doctor Hung advises a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

If you have to stay up late, drink enough water to reduce the risk of kidney stones. Limit coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, and alcohol late at night. Arrange for proper sleep in the following days to allow your body to recover. You should reduce your intake of oxalate-rich foods (like spinach, beets, and chocolate), sodium, and animal protein, especially in the evening. Instead, eat plenty of green vegetables, fruits, and citrate-rich foods (like lemons and oranges) which can help prevent stones.

Avoid holding your urine to prevent urinary stasis, which can contribute to kidney stone formation. Holding urine also creates an environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to recurrent urinary tract infections. Over time, this can severely affect the kidney's filtering function, potentially leading to kidney failure. To support kidney function, engage in light exercise for a few minutes every hour if possible to stimulate blood circulation.

MSc. Dr. Le Minh Hung

Department of Urology - Andrology

Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi