What are Kidney Stones?

Kidney Stones are crystal-like structures of different sizes. The most common stones in the southeast United States are composed of calcium oxylate, a hard salt compound. When stones cause obstruction, pain, bleeding or infection, treatment is usually necessary.

Currently in the United States, some five million people have kidney stones. The exact cause of kidney stones is unknown, although heredity, diet, age, climate and infection have proven to be contributing factors.

 

For more information about Kidney Stones go to the Mayo Clinic.