Can Bladder Stones Cause Infection?

Yes, bladder stones can cause infections, especially when they are not treated in time. A bladder stone is a hard mass made of minerals that form inside the bladder, often when urine becomes too concentrated or when the bladder does not empty completely. These stones may irritate the bladder lining, block the flow of urine, and create an environment where bacteria can grow easily.

When urine is held in the bladder for too long or cannot flow freely, bacteria that would normally be flushed out can multiply. This can lead to a urinary tract infection (UTI). The presence of a bladder stone increases this risk because it can cause damage to the bladder wall and interfere with normal emptying. Stones may also carry bacteria on their surface, making it harder to clear the infection with antibiotics alone.

Infections related to bladder stones may cause symptoms such as:

• A burning or stinging feeling during urination
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine
• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
• Fever or chills, if the infection spreads

If a bladder stone is not removed, the infection may keep coming back. Repeated infections can weaken the bladder wall and may eventually lead to kidney problems if the infection spreads upward. In some cases, the stone can become lodged and completely block urine flow, which is a medical emergency.

Diagnosis usually involves a combination of urinalysis, bladder ultrasound, or cystoscopy. These tests help identify the stone, detect signs of infection, and assess any damage to the bladder.

Treatment may involve using antibiotics to clear the infection first. Once the infection is controlled, the bladder stone may be removed using minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopic removal or lithotripsy, where sound waves break the stone into smaller pieces. Treating both the infection and the stone is important to prevent complications.