Those Who Work Night Shifts At 15% More Risk Of Kidney Stones, Says Study

Last Updated:October 02, 2025, 14:04 IST

Often dismissed as minor, kidney stones may signal serious health risks. The study warns young workers about the dangers of neglecting healthy lifestyle habits

Night shift workers often consume insufficient water, smoke more frequently, and exhibit unhealthy eating habits. (Representative/AP)

A recent study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings highlights a significant health concern for those working night shifts. The research reveals that employees who regularly work night shifts are at a heightened risk of developing kidney stones, a finding that underscores the broader implications of a 24/7 work culture increasingly adopted by many companies.

Night shifts are particularly prevalent in critical sectors such as medical, transportation, and security, where continuous vigilance is essential. However, the challenge of staying awake during these shifts can adversely impact workers’ health.

According to a Times of India report, the study, which monitored approximately 220,000 individuals over 14 years, found that young night shift workers have a 15% higher risk of developing kidney stones compared to their day shift counterparts.

The disruption of the body’s natural 24-hour clock—responsible for regulating sleep, digestion, hormones, and metabolism—plays a pivotal role in this increased risk. Staying awake at night and sleeping during the day interferes with this system, impairing digestion, causing hormonal imbalances, and affecting fluid balance, all of which contribute to kidney stone formation.

Moreover, the study points out that certain lifestyle habits associated with night shifts compound the problem. Night shift workers often consume insufficient water, smoke more frequently, and exhibit unhealthy eating habits. Poor sleep and high body mass index (BMI) further exacerbate the imbalance of minerals and salts in the body, accelerating kidney stone development.

The symptoms of kidney stones include severe pain in the back or lower abdomen, burning or pain during urination, blood in the urine, nausea, and vomiting. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications.

For those working night shifts, it is critical to take preventive measures to safeguard health. This includes drinking at least 2-3 litres of water daily, avoiding salty and processed foods, engaging in physical activities after desk work, ensuring sleep in a dark and quiet environment, and scheduling regular health checkups.

While kidney stones are often perceived as a minor issue, they can signal more severe health problems. The study serves as a warning, particularly to younger workers, about the consequences of neglecting healthy lifestyle habits. By adopting simple precautions, night shift workers can protect their health in the long term.

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Author: News18