A bladder stone is a hard mass of minerals that forms in the urinary bladder when urine becomes concentrated. It can cause pain, infection, and blood in the urine. In some cases, it can also block the flow of urine and cause severe problems.
Bladder stones are usually caused by one or more of the following factors:
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can make the urine more concentrated and increase the risk of stone formation.
Urinary retention: Inability to empty the bladder completely can cause urine to stagnate and crystallize.
Urinary tract infection (UTI): Bacteria can cause infection and inflammation in the urinary tract, which can alter the pH and composition of the urine and promote stone formation.
Enlarged prostate: Men with an enlarged prostate gland may have difficulty urinating and emptying the bladder, which can lead to bladder stones.
Bladder diverticula: These are pouches or sacs that form in the bladder wall and can trap urine and cause stones.
Foreign objects: Sometimes, foreign objects such as catheters, stents, or implants can irritate the bladder and cause stones.
Diet: Certain foods and supplements can increase the levels of calcium, oxalate, uric acid, or cystine in the urine, which can contribute to stone formation.
Bladder stones may not cause any symptoms if they are small and do not obstruct the urine flow. However, some common signs and symptoms of bladder stones are:
Lower abdominal pain: This may be dull, sharp, or cramping, and may vary depending on the position and movement of the stone.
Pain or difficulty urinating: This may include a burning sensation, a frequent or urgent need to urinate, or a weak or interrupted urine stream.
Blood in the urine: This may be visible as red, pink, or brown urine, or detected by a urine test.
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine: This may indicate an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract.
Urinary tract infection: This may cause fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or back pain, in addition to the urinary symptoms.
Bladder stones can be diagnosed by a physical examination and various tests, such as:
Urinalysis: This is a test that checks the color, clarity, pH, and presence of blood, bacteria, or crystals in the urine.
Urine culture: This is a test that identifies the type and number of bacteria in the urine and determines the best antibiotic for treatment.
X-ray: This is an imaging test that uses radiation to create pictures of the urinary tract and detect the size, shape, and location of the stones.
Ultrasound: This is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the urinary tract and detect the size, shape, and location of the stones.
CT scan: This is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed pictures of the urinary tract and detect the size, shape, and location of the stones.
Cystoscopy: This is a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera and a light to examine the inside of the bladder and remove or break up the stones.
Bladder stones can be treated by one or more of the following methods:
Drinking more fluids: This can help flush out the stones and prevent new ones from forming.
Medication: This can help relieve pain, infection, or inflammation caused by the stones.
Lithotripsy: This is a procedure that uses shock waves or lasers to break up the stones into smaller pieces that can be passed in the urine.
Surgery: This is a procedure that involves making an incision in the abdomen or the urethra and removing the stones manually or with instruments.
Bladder stones can be prevented by adopting some lifestyle changes, such as:
Drinking enough water: This can help dilute the urine and reduce the concentration of minerals that can form stones.
Urinating regularly: This can help empty the bladder and prevent urine from stagnating and crystallizing.
Treating underlying conditions: This can help address the causes of bladder stones, such as urinary retention, urinary tract infection, enlarged prostate, or bladder diverticula.
Eating a balanced diet: This can help maintain the optimal levels of calcium, oxalate, uric acid, or cystine in the urine and avoid foods or supplements that can increase the risk of stone formation.
