Kidney stones are usually yellow or brown in color and the structure and texture of the stones can be smooth or jagged. Several other visual characteristics are common, such as a crystalline appearance with different mineral striations appearing throughout the structure of the stone. Examination and testing of a kidney stone by a urologist can determine much about the possible cause of and remedy for patients with the potential to form more kidney stones. Most kidney stones are formed as a result of limited water intake, dietary choices, mineral imbalances, and metabolic factors that create high concentrations of calcium and oxalate or cystine within the kidney itself. Sufficient water intake is both a preventive as well as a therapeutic measure.
Kidney stones tend to run in families and can be associated with geographic factors as well.
Those people living in tropical climes may be more susceptible to kidney stone formation due to a shift in the body's water management in a tropical setting. Perspiration becomes prevalent as a percentage of the body's water management and urination declines slightly as the urine is in storage longer throughout the urinary tract. Perspiration can also be an even more significant factor for those performing hard physical labor under hot conditions. Although it may seem obvious, the fact is that most people do not drink enough water every day, and in tropical areas this is even more critical. Whatever method used to tackle the problems of a kidney stone that is lodged, increased water intake is the first step.