Bladder Stones
Overview
Bladder stones are mineral deposits that form directly inside the bladder, most often because the bladder isn't emptying fully. They're distinct from kidney stones, which form in the kidney and travel down, though the two are sometimes confused.
Symptoms
Causes
The main cause is incomplete bladder emptying, often from an enlarged prostate, a urethral stricture, catheter use, or a bladder affected by nerve problems that leave urine sitting long enough for minerals to crystallize.
Risk Factors
Diagnosis
Ultrasound, X-ray, or CT scan usually finds the stone; cystoscopy confirms it directly and can often guide same-visit treatment.
Complications If Untreated
Left untreated, stones grow larger, cause repeated infections, and can damage the bladder wall or, over time, affect kidney function.
Treatment Options
Prevention Tips
Staying well hydrated and treating bladder-emptying problems early — such as an enlarging prostate — is the most effective prevention.
Lifestyle Advice
Don't delay evaluation of a weak urine stream, since treating the underlying cause early prevents stones from forming in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bladder stones form directly in the bladder, usually because it isn't emptying fully, unlike kidney stones which form in the kidney. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
Watch for an interrupted urine stream, lower abdominal pain, blood in urine, and recurring urinary infections. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
The main cause is incomplete bladder emptying, often from an enlarged prostate, stricture, catheter use, or a bladder affected by nerve problems. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
Ultrasound, X-ray, or CT scan usually finds the stone; cystoscopy confirms it directly and can guide treatment. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
Most stones need a minor scope procedure called cystolitholapaxy to break them up. Treating the underlying cause, like BPH, prevents recurrence. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?
Left untreated, stones grow larger, cause repeated infections, and can damage the bladder or, over time, the kidneys. When should I consult Dr. Raju R?