Kidney Stones Nutrition & Dietetics Department What Are Kidney Stones? Kidney stones can be caused by a high concentration of crystals in the urine. These include oxalate and urate, which can also be found in normal urine. They do not normally cause problems when present in low levels, but can form crystals and predispose to stone formation at higher concentrations. These stones in the kidney may travel down the urinary tract and can cause pain or blood in the urine. Smaller stones may be passed out; but larger stones can obstruct urinary flow, and may then require further treatment or procedures. Your doctor will advise on the appropriate treatment you require. The common types of kidney stones are: calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate.
Other types of stones include: struvite stones, uric acid stones and cystine stones. What Are The Symptoms? Symptoms of kidney stones may include: • Severe flank pain • Pain on urination, in the lower abdomen or groin • Pink, red or brown urine • Cloudy or foul smelling urine • Persistent urge to urinate • Fever and chills, if infection is present However, some urinary stones may not cause any symptoms at all.