Types of Kidney Stones

Overview

The four main types of kidney stones are:

Calcium stones.

Most kidney stones are made of calcium compounds. Conditions that cause high calcium levels in the body, such as hyperparathyroidism, increase the risk of calcium stones.

Uric acid stones.

Some kidney stones are made of uric acid, a waste product in urine. You're more likely to have uric acid stones if you have:

  • Low urine output.
  • A diet high in animal protein, such as red meat.
  • An increase in how much alcohol you drink.
  • Gout.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease.
Struvite stones.

Some kidney stones are struvite stones. These can be serious, because they are often large stones and may occur with an infection.

Cystine stones.

Stones made of a chemical called cystine are less common. They're more likely to occur in people who have a condition that results in too much cystine in the urine (cystinuria).

Credits

Current as of: November 15, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.