Crystals in Urine
What Is the Crystal in Urine?
The crystal in urine is an accumulation of certain dissolved substances in the urine that crystallize and form tiny, solid particles. Examples of crystals that can be present in the urine are phosphates, calcium oxalates, uric acid, and amorphous urates. All of these crystals may be found in the urine of healthy individuals, but certain crystals become more common in the urine of individuals with certain diseases.
Preparation Before the Test
No special preparation is necessary before the crystal in the urine test. However, there are certain guidelines that your doctor may recommend that you should follow:
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Avoid taking vitamins and dietary supplements the day before taking the test.
- If you are taking any medications, tell your doctor about them.
- Avoid strenuous activities before the test.
Types of Crystal in Urine
The following are some of the more common types of crystals that may be present in the urine:
- Calcium oxalate – This is the most common type of crystal in the urine. It can be found in the urine of healthy individuals, but it is more common in individuals with kidney stones.
- Uric acid – This type of crystal is more common in individuals with gout.
- Amorphous urates – These crystals are more common in individuals with uric acid kidney stones.
- Phosphates – These crystals are more common in individuals with certain metabolic diseases.
- Cystine – This type of crystal is more common in individuals with a hereditary disorder called cystinuria.
- Drugs – Certain drugs can form crystals in the urine, such as certain antibiotics and certain chemotherapy drugs.
Risks of Crystal in Urine
The presence of crystals in the urine does not necessarily indicate a problem. Crystals can be present in the urine of healthy individuals. But if the amount of crystals increases or certain types of crystals are found more frequently, it can indicate certain health problems, including kidney stones and certain diseases.
Why Do Crystals Form in the Urine?
The formation of crystals in the urine is usually caused by the increase of certain substances in the body. For example, if there is an excessive amount of calcium or uric acid in the body, these substances can crystallize and form crystals in the urine. Certain medications and dietary supplements can also cause crystals to form in the urine.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice crystals in your urine that don’t seem to go away, it is important to speak to your doctor. Your doctor can perform tests to determine if the crystals are normal or if there is an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.