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Types of Kidney Stones

Analyzing and treating different types of kidney stones

Kidney stones, also called renal stones or urinary stones, are hard deposits made of minerals in urine. Our North Austin kidney stone specialists explain that it is essential to identify types of kidney stones because each stone has different causes that may need to be addressed. Each patient’s renal stone type will also determine whether dietary changes or medical treatment are necessary to prevent future stones.

Understanding the types of kidney stones

Stones can vary significantly in size, shape and the impact they have on a person. In some cases, patients experience little to no symptoms at all, while in others, the condition is extremely painful. There are four primary types of kidney stones: calcium, uric acid, struvite and cystine.

Calcium stones are the most common type of stone and are divided into two specific kinds: calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate. They occur when the urine contains low citrate and high calcium levels, along with oxalate or uric acid.

  • Calcium oxalate stones are linked to consuming foods high in oxalate, such as nuts, chocolate, black tea and spinach, or vitamin C supplements more significant than 500 milligrams. Consuming calcium does not cause calcium stones. In fact, dairy can help prevent them.
  • Calcium phosphate stones indicate that the urinary tract system is not functioning correctly, leading to stones forming.

Uric acid stones are more common in men and occur when urine contains too much acid. Not drinking enough water or eating a diet high in shellfish and red meat can increase uric acid in urine, leading to a kidney stone.

Struvite stones occur as a result of upper urinary tract infections. More common in women, they can grow quickly and become very large.

Cystine stones are caused by a hereditary genetic condition called cystinuria. Cystine stones can form in the kidneys, bladder or ureter, and are the most likely renal stone type to form in a person younger than 18.

Testing and treatment for stones

Testing to determine types of kidney stones is done once a stone has been passed in your urine. Your doctor will have you urinate through a strainer to catch the stone, or it may need to be surgically removed.

Your urologist will also run a urine chemistry test to assess your future stone risk.

These test results and other factors, including your age, sex and other health considerations, will be used to develop a treatment plan.

Understanding your renal stone type plays a key role in how to address the problem going forward. Your treatment plan may include dietary changes or medication. Kidney stones are not preventable, but treatment can help reduce the number of stones that form.

If you have questions about the different types of kidney stones or want to discuss your history of kidney stones, contact our North Austin kidney stone specialists.