What Is a Bladder Stone?

A bladder stone is a hard, crystal-like mass that forms in the bladder when urine becomes too concentrated or is not fully emptied. Minerals that are normally passed out in the urine can clump together and form small stones. Over time, these stones can grow larger and cause discomfort, infections, or problems with urination.

Bladder stones may be small, like a grain of sand, or large enough to take up much of the bladder space. They can occur in both men and women but are more common in men, especially those with prostate enlargement, which can block urine flow. In women, bladder stones may develop due to bladder prolapse, incomplete bladder emptying, or after certain types of surgery.

The most common cause of bladder stones is urine retention, where the bladder does not empty completely. This may happen due to nerve damage, urinary tract infections, foreign objects like long-term catheters, or underlying conditions such as bladder outlet obstruction. When urine sits in the bladder too long, it becomes concentrated, and the minerals begin to crystallize and stick together.

Symptoms of bladder stones vary depending on their size and whether they are causing irritation. Some people may not notice any symptoms at first. However, as the stone grows or moves, it may lead to:

  • Pain or burning during urination
  • Frequent need to urinate
  • Difficulty starting or stopping the urine stream
  • Blood in the urine
  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
  • Lower abdominal pain

Diagnosis is usually done using a urine test, bladder ultrasound, or cystoscopy, where a small camera is used to examine the inside of the bladder.

Treatment depends on the size and number of stones. Small bladder stones may pass naturally with increased fluid intake. Larger stones usually require removal, either through cystoscopic removal or lithotripsy, a procedure that breaks the stone into smaller pieces. Treating the underlying cause is important to prevent new stones from forming.

If bladder stones are not treated, they can lead to repeated urinary tract infections, bladder damage, or blockages.

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