December might mark the start of the festive season, but it also marks the start of Australia’s unofficial kidney stone season.
As temperatures rise and routines get looser, urologists tend to see a noticeable spike in patients presenting with stone-related pain, dehydration, and urinary issues.
The main culprit is simple: summer heat equals fluid loss, and most people don’t match that loss by drinking more water.
Even mild dehydration can concentrate minerals in the urine, making it easier for crystals to form and stones to grow. Add holiday factors—salty party foods, alcohol, long travel days, and disrupted hydration habits—and you’ve got the perfect conditions for problems.
Diet plays a bigger role than most realise. Festive spreads are often high in oxalates and sodium, both of which can increase stone risk. Meanwhile, alcohol acts as a diuretic, pulling water from the body and leaving the urinary system more vulnerable. For people who’ve had stones before, December can be a particularly risky month.
A few simple habits can make a big difference:
• Drink water consistently, especially outdoors or while drinking alcohol.
• Aim for pale yellow urine, a good sign you’re staying hydrated.
• Balance festive foods with fresh fruit and vegetables.
• Don’t ignore symptoms—severe pain, blood in the urine, or fever require prompt medical care.
As always, early advice from a specialist can prevent complications and provide tailored guidance.
Dr Arianayagam is a highly skilled urological surgeon who treats cancers and other disorders of the urinary system.
After training in NSW further training in Urologic Oncology, he was undertaken at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. He completed a two-year fellowship accredited by the Society of Urologic Oncology.
If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment, please feel free to contact or call Dr Arianayagam’s office on 1300 307 990 and his staff will be able to assist.
