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Bladder stonesDefinitionBladder stones are hard buildups of mineral that form in the urinary bladder. Alternative NamesStones - bladder; Urinary tract stones; Bladder calculiCausesBladder stones are usually the result of another urologic problem such as urinary tract infection, bladder diverticulum, neurogenic bladder, or an enlarged prostate. Approximately 95% of all bladder stones occur in men. Stones originating in the bladder are much less common than kidney stones. Bladder stones may occur when urine in the bladder is concentrated and materials crystallize. The patient feels symptoms when the lining of the bladder is irritated by the stone or when the stone obstructs the flow of urine from the bladder. Symptoms
Incontinence may also be associated with bladder stones. Exams and Tests
TreatmentDrinking 6 to 8 glasses of water or more per day, enough to increase urinary output, may help the stones pass. Stones that do not pass on their own may be removed by your health care provider using a cystoscope (a small tube that passes through the urethra to the bladder). Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) uses ultrasonic waves to break up stones. Some stones may need to be removed using open surgery. Medications are rarely used to dissolve the stones. Underlying causes of bladder stones should be treated. Most commonly bladder stones are seen in conjunction with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or bladder outlet obstruction. For patients with BPH and bladder stones, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) can be performed with ESWL. Outlook (Prognosis)Most bladder stones are expelled or can be removed without permanent damage to the bladder. They may recur if the underlying cause is not corrected. If the stones are left untreated they may cause repeated urinary tract infections or permanent damage to the bladder or kidneys. Possible Complications
When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall your health care provider if symptoms indicate that you may have bladder stones. PreventionPrompt treatment of urinary tract infections or other urologic conditions may help prevent bladder stones.
Review Date:
6/13/2006 Reviewed By: Neil D. Sherman, MD, Urologist, Essex County, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.  |
