Crystals form in everyone’s urine, including those who do not have kidney stones. Kidneys produce urine and this urine naturally consists of elements that enhance the formation of crystals. The elements that enhance the formation of crystals are sodium, oxalate, uric acid, calcium and phosphorus. However, cystine also promotes the formation of kidney stones, particularly in individuals with Cystinuria, an inherited disorder.

The compounds that promote the formation of kidney stones originate from the bloodstream. These compounds get into urine because kidneys play a role in blood filtration and regulate the amount of urinary components that should be reabsorbed back into the bloodstream or released as waste through the urine.

Kidney Stone Inhibitors

Apart from the compounds that promote the formation of stones, urine is comprised of proteins and other substances that inhibit the formation of crystals. Examples of kidney stone inhibitors include magnesium, citrate, phytate, proteins, pyrophosphate and macromolecules. In addition to these components, urine volume also inhibits the formation of kidney stones such that larger urine volumes tend to be more dilute and less saturated. All of these inhibitors help in the removal of crystals before their attachment and growth along the kidneys.

How Kidney Stones Form

For the tiny crystals to grow into bigger stones, urine must undergo supersaturation caused by several factors such as a low volume of urine, a reduced concentration of the kidney stone inhibitors, a very high concentration of compounds that promote kidney stones, or a combination of all these factors.

Normally, there is a good balance between the kidney stone inhibitors and promoters, and the kidneys eliminate tiny crystals without any pain. Therefore, if the crystals are tiny and the urine is less concentrated to prevent supersaturation, the crystals will be eliminated from the body along with urine, through the bladder and ureters, without any problem. However, not everyone has the right balance between stone inhibitors and promoters. Lifestyle, genetics and other factors can increase the likelihood of kidney stone formation. Individuals who lack this balance can greatly benefit from medical treatment and diagnosis at St Pete Urology.

Share Us
St Pete Urology

Dr. Reid Graves, Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis and Dr. Adam Oppenheim of St Pete Urology are board certified urologists in treating urological diseases with the use of the latest technology available. Contact us at our office in St Petersburg, Florida.

Recent Posts

Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer Explained

Explore prostate cancer treatment options, from active surveillance to surgery, with insights tailored for St. Petersburg…

4 days ago

Early Signs of Prostate Cancer: What Should Men Know?

Discover the early signs of prostate cancer, from urinary changes to subtle red flags, and…

5 days ago

Managing Overactive Bladder: Tips and Treatments

Discover effective overactive bladder treatment options. Learn practical tips and strategies to manage symptoms and…

1 week ago

What Is Overactive Bladder and Who Is at Risk?

Learn what is overactive bladder, its symptoms, who’s at risk, and when to seek care…

2 weeks ago

How Is Erectile Dysfunction Treated Today?

Explore modern erectile dysfunction treatment options – from pills to implants – and learn when to…

2 weeks ago

What Causes Erectile Dysfunction in Men?

Discover the top erectile dysfunction causes, including physical and psychological factors, and find expert care…

3 weeks ago

Follow Us On:

This website uses cookies.