Kidney stones are caused by a variety of factors, including imbalances in urine chemistry, diet, other illnesses and certain medications. In some cases, the cause may not be known. Commonly, kidney stones are caused by a combination of factors that increase the risk, including: not drinking enough fluids, especially water; eating a diet high in protein, sodium, and sugar; having a family history of kidney stones; and having certain medical conditions such as gout, urinary tract infections, and inflammatory bowel disease.
