How does a doctor determine the type of kidney stone?
If a person can catch a kidney stone as it passes, the doctor can send the stone to a laboratory for analysis. For stones that are causing symptoms, the doctor may also retrieve a stone surgically or with a scope inserted through the urethra into the bladder or ureter. The doctor will also order tests to look for unusual levels of chemicals such as calcium, oxalate, magnesium, and sodium in the blood and urine to help design a prevention strategy.
