Alternative Names
Stones – bladder; Urinary tract stones; Bladder calculi
Definition of Bladder stones
Bladder stones are hard buildups of minerals that form in the urinary bladder.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Bladder stones are usually the result of another urologic problem, such as:
Symptoms
Symptoms occur when the stone irritates the lining of the bladder or obstructs the flow of urine from the bladder. Symptoms can include:
Signs and tests
The health care provider will perform a physical exam, including a rectal examination. The exam may reveal an enlarged prostate or other problems.
Treatment
Drinking 6 – 8 glasses of water or more per day to increase urinary output may help the stones pass.
Expectations (prognosis)
Most bladder stones are expelled or can be removed without permanent damage to the bladder. They may come back if the cause is not corrected.
Review
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 6/17/2010
