In Traditional Chinese Medicine, kidney stones are referred to as "Shi Lin". This condition is related to factors such as dietary imbalance, kidney deficiency, and dampness-heat in the bladder. Improper diet, weakened spleen function, disharmony between organs, and the accumulation of dampness-heat in the lower abdomen can all contribute to the formation of kidney stones. Additionally, kidney deficiency can lead to inefficient transformation of fluids and abnormal urinary function, resulting in the accumulation of dampness-heat in the lower abdomen. Liver stagnation can also cause the accumulation of heat in the lower abdomen, leading to the scorching of urine and the formation of stone-like masses. These masses can range in size from small grains of sand to larger stones. When these stones are unable to be expelled with urine, they block the urinary tract and hinder the smooth flow of urine, causing discomfort. The stagnation of qi can lead to blood disorders, and the combination of blood stasis and qi stagnation can further impede the flow of qi and cause blockage in the urinary system, leading to symptoms such as urinary retention. The accumulation of dampness-heat can damage the blood vessels and result in the presence of blood in the urine. Over time, both the spleen and kidneys become deficient, worsening the condition. The causes and mechanisms of Shi Lin can be summarized as follows:
(1) Dampness-heat congealment
Excessive consumption of greasy, sweet, and spicy foods or excessive alcohol consumption can lead to the accumulation of dampness-heat in the lower abdomen over time, resulting in the formation of kidney stones.
(2) Qi stagnation and blood stasis
Qi stagnation and blood stasis can both contribute to the formation and development of kidney stones. Kidney and lumbar injuries, excessive intake of oxalates, calcium, magnesium, and other elements through drinking water, as well as emotional depression, can all lead to qi stagnation and blood stasis. Prolonged stagnation can generate heat, which moves down to the lower abdomen and scalds the urine. Over time, this can result in the formation of kidney stones. Once the stones form, they can obstruct the urinary tract, impair the function of the bladder, and further exacerbate qi stagnation. The blockage of the urinary system can also lead to the accumulation of cold, causing the stones to enlarge and potentially become impacted, leading to blood stasis.
(3) Yang deficiency and weak qi
The kidneys are responsible for water metabolism. If the kidney yang is deficient, it cannot transform and excrete fluids effectively. With long-term retention of kidney stones, the urinary system becomes obstructed, causing the gradual decline of kidney qi. Ultimately, this can lead to organ failure and the extinction of vital energy.
(4) Spleen and kidney deficiency
The spleen is responsible for transforming and transporting water and dampness, while the kidneys regulate the body's water metabolism. When kidney stones block the flow of water and dampness, it can affect the function of the spleen and kidneys. Chronic illness can lead to a transition from excess to deficiency, often resulting in spleen and kidney deficiency. However, if the function of the spleen and kidneys is strong, it can help expel pathogenic factors.
