16. Renal colics and kidney stones
Uric acid crystals do not only form in the joints. They can also develop in the kidneys, causing kidney stones, especially if you already have a propensity to have them. The urine in patients with gout tends to be more acidic. This, combined with the higher uric acid level in the blood, makes them at risk of developing nephrolithiasis. Uric acid kidney stones are equally hard but with a dark color. If you have them, you’re likely to develop other signs and symptoms, including renal colic (low back pain), urinary outflow obstruction, and urinary infections when they move and tear the urinary tract on their way out.