Once the stone has been treated, your doctor will perform tests to determine why the stone formed and will recommend dietary modifications and possibly medications to prevent recurrences in the future.

A doctor may only do a few tests the first time you have a kidney stone. However, if you continue to develop stones, more extensive testing will be done to determine the cause.

Some treatments your doctor may suggest to prevent additional stones from forming may include:

• Gradually increasing intake of water, following your doctor's plan, especially if you have kidney, heart, or liver disease.
• Limiting the amount of protein in your diet.
• Reducing the amount of salt (sodium) in your diet.
• Avoiding foods that have high amounts of oxalate, if this compound is involved in the formation of your kidney stones.