What are bladder stones?

Bladder stones, also known as bladder calculi, are mineral deposits that form in the bladder. These stones can range in size from small particles to larger, solid masses. While bladder stones are relatively rare, they can cause significant discomfort and may require medical intervention for treatment. In this article, we will explore what bladder stones are, their symptoms, and the available treatment options.

 What are bladder stones?

Bladder stones develop when minerals in the urine crystallise and clump together in the bladder. Bladder stones primarily consist of calcium, making it the most prevalent type. However, stone formation can also involve other minerals such as uric acid and struvite. The risk of developing bladder stones can be influenced by various factors, including urinary tract infections, urinary retention, enlarged prostate gland, and certain medical conditions like gout or spinal cord injuries.

Symptoms of bladder stones

The symptoms of bladder stones can vary depending on their location and size within the bladder. Some common signs and symptoms include:

• Urinary problems: Bladder stones can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to difficulties in starting or stopping urination, a weak urine stream, or a frequent urge to urinate.
• Haematuria: This is the presence of blood in the urine and can occur as a result of bladder stones causing irritation to the bladder
• Lower abdominal pain: Discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen is a common symptom, especially when the stones move within the bladder.
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine: Bladder stones can cause changes in the appearance and odour of urine.
• Urinary tract infections: The presence of bladder stones can heighten the likelihood of urinary tract infections, which may present with symptoms such as fever, painful urination, and a persistent urge to urinate.

How are bladder stones treated?

The treatment approach for bladder stones depends on their size, number, and the severity of symptoms. Smaller stones may pass out of the bladder naturally, but larger stones often require medical intervention. The available treatment options include:

• Fluid intake: Increasing fluid intake can help flush out smaller stones from the bladder. For patients with asymptomatic or small stones, this approach is frequently advised as a recommended course of action.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as alpha-blockers, may be prescribed to relax the bladder muscles and facilitate the passage of stones.
• Bladder stone removal: If the stones are large or cause significant symptoms, they may need to be removed. This can be done through various procedures, including cystolitholapaxy (using a laser or ultrasound to break the stones), open surgery, or minimally invasive techniques such as percutaneous cystolithotomy or robotic-assisted surgery.

Treating underlying conditions: To prevent the recurrence of bladder stones, it is vital to address the underlying cause if it is attributed to a condition like an enlarged prostate or urinary tract infection.