Bladder Stones

What are Bladder Stones?

Bladder stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the bladder when urine becomes concentrated. They can vary in size and may cause discomfort, urinary problems, or infection. While small stones may pass unnoticed, larger stones often require medical treatment.

 

Common Symptoms:

 

• Pain or burning during urination

• Frequent urination or urgency

• Blood in the urine (hematuria)

• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain

• Difficulty emptying the bladder fully

 

Causes & Triggers:

Bladder stones often form when urine sits in the bladder for too long or when the bladder doesn’t empty completely:

 

• Chronic urinary retention

• Enlarged prostate or urethral obstruction

• Catheter use

• Dehydration leading to concentrated urine

• Bladder diverticula or structural abnormalities

 

Management & Treatment:

Treatment depends on the size and symptoms of the stones:

 

• Small stones: May pass naturally with increased fluid intake

• Medical procedures: Lithotripsy (breaking stones using shock waves) or surgical removal for larger stones