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Calcium oxalate crystals are structures that can be found in acidic or neutral pH urine, and are often considered normal when no other changes are identified in the urine test and when there are no associated signs or symptoms, in which case it may be related to decreased water consumption during the day or a diet rich in calcium and oxalate.
These crystals have an envelope shape and are identified through microscopic analysis of urine during the examination of type 1 urine, also called EAS. In addition to the calcium oxalate crystal, other crystals can be identified in the urine, such as triple phosphate, leucine or uric acid crystal, the cause of which must be identified and treated. Learn more about crystals in urine.
The main causes of the appearance of calcium oxalate crystals in the urine are:
1. Changes in diet
Changes in daily diet can favor the formation of calcium oxalate crystals, especially when there is a diet rich in calcium, oxalate, such as when eating tomatoes, spinach, rhubarb, garlic, orange and asparagus, and using high doses of vitamin C , in daily quantities above the recommended, in addition to low water intake during the day. This causes the urine to become more concentrated and excess calcium to precipitate, with crystals being noticed in the urine test.
Although the presence of calcium oxalate crystals in the urine is not considered a cause for concern, it is important to increase water intake and adjust the diet with the guidance of a nutritionist, as this way it is also possible to decrease the risk of developing kidney stones.
2. Renal stone
The kidney stone, also known as kidney stone, is a very uncomfortable sensation characterized by the presence of stone-like masses in the urinary tract. Through the examination of type 1 urine, it is possible to identify the type of stone present in the kidney, as crystals are identified in the urine, and there may be the presence of calcium oxalate crystals when the stone appears as a result of a diet rich in calcium, sodium and proteins.
The stones usually cause a lot of pain and discomfort, especially in the bottom of the back, in addition to causing pain and a burning sensation when urinating. In some cases, the person may also notice that the urine is pink or red, which is an indication that the stone may be trapped in the urinary canal, causing obstruction and inflammation. Learn how to recognize kidney stone symptoms.
3. Diabetes
Diabetes can be characterized by several changes in blood and urine tests, and in some cases the presence of calcium oxalate crystals in the urine can be noticed, especially when diabetes is not controlled and results in changes in the kidneys, either due to lack treatment or lack of response to the treatment indicated by the doctor.
In addition to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals, it may also be noted in some cases the presence of glucose in the urine and bacteria or yeasts, since people with uncontrolled diabetes are more likely to develop urinary infections due to the high concentration of glucose circulating, which favors the development of microorganisms. Learn about other complications of diabetes.
4. Changes in the liver
Some changes in the liver may also favor the formation of calcium oxalate crystals, which are identified through urine examination. In addition, when there are changes in the liver, urine testing may also indicate the presence of bilirubin and / or hemoglobin in the urine. See other tests that evaluate the liver.
5. Kidney diseases
Changes in the kidneys such as infection, inflammation or insufficiency can also result in the appearance of calcium oxalate crystals in the urine, as the activity of the kidneys may be impaired in such a way that the filtration and reabsorption process may be impaired.
Thus, it is important that the doctor evaluates the result of the urine test, checking if there is any other alteration besides the presence of crystals so that the cause is identified and the appropriate treatment is started, avoiding more serious damage to the kidneys.
How to avoid calcium oxalate crystals
Although in most cases calcium oxalate crystals are not associated with serious changes, to avoid their formation it is important to consume a lot of water during the day and have an adequate diet, so as not to consume quantities above the recommended amount per day. calcium.
In addition, in case the person has been diagnosed with diabetes, kidney or liver disorders, it is important to follow the treatment indicated by the doctor, because in addition to preventing the formation of the crystals it also prevents the progression of the disease.