Uric Acid Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Uric acid is created by the body from the metabolism of proteins and is passed into kidneys and urinary system. A high protein diet, gout and genetic disorders can increase a person's risk of developing uric acid kidney stones.

Water and Exercise

• According to the Mayo Clinic, patients may be able to pass a kidney stone by drinking two to three quarts of water daily and by being physically active.

Shock Waves

• The extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy procedure uses shock waves to break up kidney stones so that the stone fragments are small enough to pass with urination.

Nephroscope

• A physician may use a small incision in the back to allow him to use a nephroscope to surgically remove a large stone directly from the kidney.

Ureteroscope

• An ureteroscope may be used to snare a kidney stone in the ureter. Ultrasound or a laser may be used to break up a kidney stone.

Medication

• Allopurinol may be prescribed to reduce uric acid levels in the urine and blood. An alkalizing agent may be taken to dissolve uric acid kidney stones.