Crystalluria

Crystalluria is a medical condition where crystals are expelled in the urine. These crystals can be of various types, including calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and cystine. Crystalluria is often a symptom of other medical conditions, such as kidney stones, gout, and certain metabolic disorders.

Causes

Crystalluria can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

• Dehydration: This can concentrate the urine, leading to the formation of crystals.
• Diet: Consuming foods high in certain substances can increase the risk of crystalluria. For example, a diet high in purines can lead to uric acid crystals in the urine.
• Metabolic disorders: Certain disorders, such as hyperparathyroidism and cystinuria, can cause crystalluria.
• Medications: Some medications, such as vitamin C supplements and certain diuretics, can increase the risk of crystalluria.

Symptoms

The symptoms of crystalluria can vary depending on the type of crystal and the underlying cause. Some people with crystalluria may not experience any symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Pain: This can occur in the back, abdomen, or groin.
• Hematuria: This is the presence of blood in the urine.
• Frequent urination: People with crystalluria may need to urinate more often than usual.
• Urgency: This is a feeling of needing to urinate immediately.

Diagnosis

Crystalluria is typically diagnosed through a urine test. This test can identify the presence and type of crystals in the urine. In some cases, further testing may be needed to determine the underlying cause of the crystalluria.

Treatment

The treatment for crystalluria depends on the underlying cause. This can include:

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids can help to dilute the urine and prevent the formation of crystals.
• Dietary changes: This can include reducing the intake of foods high in the substances that cause the crystals.
• Medication: In some cases, medication may be needed to prevent the formation of crystals.

See also

• Kidney stones
• Gout
• Hyperparathyroidism
• Cystinuria

Crystalluria Resources
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