Israeli Actor Orel Tzabari Hospitalized with Kidney Stone Linked to Weight Loss Injections

Israeli actor Orel Tzabari experienced severe pain last Sunday morning, which forced him to miss a theater performance scheduled for that evening. He revealed in Instagram stories that after visiting a family doctor and undergoing hospital tests, doctors found a tiny one-millimeter kidney stone causing his intense discomfort. Tzabari suggested the stone might have resulted from dehydration and calcium imbalance caused by diarrhea linked to weight loss injections he had been using.

Dr. Dor Golomb, a urologist specializing in urinary tract stones at Clalit Health Services in central Israel, explained that 10% to 15% of the population suffers from kidney stones, with men more commonly affected than women. The stones form when substances in urine crystallize due to factors like insufficient hydration, metabolic syndrome, and diets high in animal protein and salt. Diarrhea can increase stone risk by causing fluid loss and calcium depletion.

Kidney stones often develop gradually over months or years and can be asymptomatic until they move into the ureter, causing severe pain, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment depends on stone size and location; small stones may pass naturally with pain management, while others require procedures such as ureteroscopy, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).

Dr. Golomb emphasized the importance of prompt medical attention if pain is accompanied by fever or reduced urine output, as these may indicate infection or obstruction requiring urgent care. After stone passage or removal, patients should save the stone for analysis to guide prevention strategies. Preventive measures include adequate hydration to produce at least 2.5 liters of urine daily, dietary adjustments to reduce salt and animal protein intake, and increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. Contrary to common belief, completely avoiding calcium is not recommended and may increase stone risk.

Tzabari’s case highlights the potential side effects of weight loss treatments and the importance of awareness about kidney stone risks and symptoms.