List of people with kidney stones

List of People with Kidney Stones

Jan de Doot depicted in a painting

Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can cause severe pain and discomfort, and have affected many notable individuals throughout history. This article provides a list of some well-known people who have suffered from kidney stones.

Historical Figures

Jan de Doot

Jan de Doot was a Dutch blacksmith who famously performed surgery on himself to remove a bladder stone. His story is depicted in a painting by Carel van Savoyen, which illustrates the dramatic moment of self-surgery. This act of self-removal of a stone is one of the most extraordinary accounts in medical history.

Michel de Montaigne

Michel de Montaigne, French philosopher

Michel de Montaigne, the French Renaissance philosopher, suffered from kidney stones for much of his life. He wrote extensively about his experiences with the condition in his essays, providing a detailed account of the pain and suffering it caused him. Montaigne's reflections on his illness offer insight into the medical understanding of kidney stones during the Renaissance.

Thomas Sydenham

Thomas Sydenham, "The English Hippocrates"

Thomas Sydenham, known as "The English Hippocrates," was a prominent physician in the 17th century. He is credited with advancing the practice of clinical medicine. Sydenham himself suffered from gout and kidney stones, which he documented in his medical writings. His personal experiences with these conditions informed his approach to treatment and patient care.

John Wilkins

John Wilkins, English clergyman and philosopher

John Wilkins, an English clergyman, natural philosopher, and author, was also afflicted by kidney stones. Wilkins was a founding member of the Royal Society and contributed significantly to the scientific discourse of his time. His struggle with kidney stones was a testament to the commonality of the condition among intellectuals of the period.

Modern Figures

Sir Arthur Sullivan

Sir Arthur Sullivan, composer

Sir Arthur Sullivan, the renowned English composer known for his operatic collaborations with W.S. Gilbert, suffered from kidney stones. His condition was a source of considerable discomfort and affected his ability to work. Despite this, Sullivan continued to compose and conduct, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of music.

James K. Polk

James K. Polk, 11th President of the United States

James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States, experienced kidney stones during his lifetime. His health issues were well-documented, and his presidency was marked by significant stress and physical ailments. Polk's experience with kidney stones is an example of how the condition has affected individuals in positions of power.

Related Pages

• Kidney stone
• Renal colic
• Urology
• History of medicine