
Kidney stones are named after the crystals they’re made from. Knowing the type helps guide Kidney Stone Prevention Support and diet choices.
Calcium Oxalate & Calcium Phosphate Stones
The most common type of kidney stones. They often form when you eat high-oxalate foods, consume too little calcium, or don’t drink enough fluids.
Uric Acid Stones
Linked to diets high in animal protein such as red meat, poultry, eggs, and fish. These stones form when urine becomes too acidic.
Struvite Stones
Caused by recurrent urinary tract infections. They can grow very large (staghorn stones) and often require surgical removal.
Cystine Stones
A rare type caused by a genetic condition called cystinuria, which leads to excess cystine in the urine.
Filed Under: Kidney stone types