What causes uric acid stones and common ways to treat them

Uric acid stones are crystallized masses of minerals stuck in the urinary tract or in the kidney. These stones are formed when the normally lower uric acid levels shoot up or/and the urine has a pH level below 5.5, i.e. it becomes acidic. If left undiagnosed, it may lead to serious health complications.

Causes of uric acid stone

  • Hereditary conditions may contribute to an excess of uric acid. For instance, gout contributes to exorbitant levels of uric acid and further formation of crystals of uric in the joints.
What causes uric acid stones and common ways to treat them
  • Excess consumption of purines is another contributing factor to high levels of uric acid. Purines are present in meats like pork, beef, and fish as well, the latter having some of the highest amounts of purines. Thus, consuming too much of these food contributes to the excess of uric acid. Some people may not end up contracting stones in spite of their diet as some are less at risk than others.
  • People who are overweight and those suffering from diabetes are quite prone to developing uric acid stones. The same thing goes for those undergoing chemotherapy.

    • Treatment of uric acid stones
    Smaller uric acid stones (less than seven millimeters) do not need any special attention as they will be eliminated on their own. This is a process that can go on for a little less than a month. Though special attention is not needed, some kind of treatment is surely crucial in order to prevent a similar situation in the future.

    Lower uric acid levels can be easily achieved by drinking more fluids – mainly water. A minimum of three liters of water is needed in order to lower uric acid levels. However, if lower uric acid levels are not attained even after taking all these measures and you end up disrupting the urine flow and develop an infection, an operation is unavoidable.

    Disclaimer:
    The content of the articles discussing symptoms, treatments, health conditions, and side effects is solely intended for informational purposes. It is imperative that readers do not interpret the information provided on the website as professional advice. Readers are requested to use their discretion and refrain from treating the suggestions or opinions provided by the writers and editors as medical advice. It is important to seek the help of licensed and expert healthcare professionals when necessary.
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