What Color Are Kidney Stones?
What Are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are small, hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can form when your urine contains high levels of certain minerals. They range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball and can cause extreme pain when they move through your urinary tract. The color of kidney stones can vary, depending on what type of kidney stone they are.
Types of Kidney Stones
The two most common types of kidney stones are calcium oxalate and uric acid stones. Calcium oxalate stones are the most common type, accounting for more than 75% of all kidney stones. They come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, and brown. Uric acid stones are usually yellow or brown and are made of uric acid.
Colors of Calcium Oxalate Stones
The color of calcium oxalate stones can vary from white to yellow or even brown. The color of a calcium oxalate stone will depend on what it is made of and how it was formed. Calcium oxalate stones can be made of different combinations of calcium, oxalate, and other minerals. The color can also change depending on how much light the stone is exposed to.
Colors of Uric Acid Stones
Uric acid stones are usually yellow or brown in color. They are made of uric acid and can be small or large in size. Uric acid stones are more likely to form in people who have gout, high levels of uric acid in their blood, or who are taking certain medications.
Treating Kidney Stones
The treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and type of stone. Small stones can often pass on their own without any intervention. Larger stones may require medication or even surgery to remove. Your doctor can help you determine the best treatment for your kidney stones.