Bladder stones, medically known as vesical calculi, can cause discomfort and a range of urinary symptoms. They develop within the urinary bladder and can vary in size, leading to symptoms such as pain during urination, blood in the urine (haematuria), frequent urination, intermittent urination, and even complete urinary obstruction.

In this comprehensive blog, we delve into the world of bladder stones, covering symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for bladder stones. Dr. Niren Rao, known as the Best Urologist in Delhi, shares his insights to make this blog enriching. Continue reading to gain expert knowledge.

Symptoms of Bladder Stones

Bladder stones can manifest through a variety of symptoms, depending on their size and location within the bladder. The common symptoms include:

1. Pain during Passing Urine: The presence of bladder stones can lead to discomfort and pain during urination, often described as a sharp or burning sensation.

2. Blood in Urine (Haematuria): Bladder stones may irritate the bladder lining, causing blood to appear in the urine. Hematuria is a common sign of bladder stones.

3. Increased Frequency of Urination: Bladder stones can trigger frequent urges to urinate. Individuals may find themselves rushing to the bathroom more often than usual.

4. Intermittency of Urination: Due to the obstruction of the bladder outlet, individuals may notice that their urine flow intermittently stops or becomes weak during urination.

5. Sudden Complete Stoppage/Inability to Pass Urine: Small bladder stones can get lodged in the urethra, leading to a sudden and complete inability to urinate.

6. Poor Flow of Urine: Bladder stones can disrupt the normal flow of urine, resulting in a weak or slow stream during urination.

7. Foul-Smelling Urine with Fever: In some cases, urine can become infected due to the presence of bladder stones. This may lead to foul-smelling urine accompanied by a fever.

Diagnosis of Bladder Stones

When presented with the symptoms mentioned above, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation for a proper diagnosis.Urologists employ various diagnostic tools to detect bladder stones, including:

1. X-ray KUB (Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder): This basic imaging test can reveal the presence of bladder stones.

2. Ultrasound: Ultrasound examinations provide information about the size and location of bladder stones, as well as the overall health of the kidneys and the prostate.

3. NCCT KUB (Non-Contrast Computed Tomography of Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder): This advanced imaging technique offers precise details about the size, location, and hardness of bladder stones, making it the preferred method for detection.

4. Uroflowmetry: To rule out any narrowing of the urethra, urologists may perform uroflowmetry before planning surgery for bladder stone removal.

5. Urine Routine/Microscopy and Urine Culture: It is imperative to rule out urinary tract infections before proceeding with surgical interventions for bladder stones.

Treatment Options for Bladder Stones

The choice of treatment for bladder stones depends on factors such as the size of the stone and the patient's age. Read more...