What should you know about Monster Energy and kidney stones?

Kidney stones form when minerals crystallise in concentrated urine. An energy drink may replace water, and caffeine can make some people urinate more; sweating, vomiting or not drinking enough can add to fluid loss. Sugar and other ingredients may also be unhelpful for overall health, but one drink cannot establish the cause of a stone. Kidney Stones can occur for several reasons, including family tendency, diet, urine chemistry and some medicines.

Pain may be felt in the flank, back or abdomen and can move towards the groin. Nausea, blood in the urine, or burning and difficulty passing urine may occur. These symptoms can also have other causes.

Choose water regularly, especially in hot weather or during exercise, and avoid using energy drinks as your main fluid. If you have repeated pain, arrange a GP Consultation. A clinician may assess urine, medicines, hydration and previous stones; an Abdominal Ultrasound may be considered. Do not take leftover antibiotics or attempt to force fluids if you cannot keep them down.

Seek urgent care for severe or worsening flank or abdominal pain, fever or chills with urinary symptoms, repeated vomiting, inability to pass urine, faintness, or feeling acutely unwell. Painful Urination and Difficulty Passing Urine deserve prompt assessment because a blockage or infection may need treatment. Do not wait for symptoms to settle if you have one functioning kidney, are pregnant, or have significant kidney disease.

Ask whether your symptoms fit a stone, how much fluid is suitable for you, whether your medicines affect stone risk, and whether testing or imaging is needed. Ask how to reduce the chance of another episode.