Acute effects of neurogenic stress on urinary electrolyte excretion

Plasma Cortisol and urinary excretion of water, sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium have been studied in the rat after application of 2 types of neurogenic stress:--(a) tight rubber band tourniquet and (b) electric shock. Plasma cortisol levels increased significantly after application of either type of stress. During both type of stress, there was statistically significant increase in the urinary excretion of water, sodium and calcium but not of potassium and magnesium. Urinary calcium/magnesium ratio was also significantly elevated. The results suggest that stress may be one of the factors involved in the genesis of urolithiasis.