Bladder stones

Bladder stones mainly occur due to incomplete emptying of the bladder, leading to the concentration of minerals in the urine. Common causes include urinary tract infections, an enlarged prostate, bladder catheters, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, bladder infections, and foreign bodies in the bladder.

• Blood in urine (hematuria)
• Pain or burning during urination
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Pain in the lower abdomen
• Interruption of urine flow
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

The diagnosis is made through a physical examination and imaging techniques such as ultrasound, X-ray, or computed tomography (CT). A urinalysis is performed to detect signs of infections or blood in the urine. In some cases, a cystoscopy (endoscopic examination of the bladder) may be necessary to directly visualize the stones.

• Conservative: Small bladder stones can often be expelled by increased drinking and frequent urination. 
• Medication: Painkillers and medications for treating infections can be prescribed. 
• Surgical: Larger stones may require endoscopic removal (cystolitholapaxy) or lithotripsy (crushing of the stones using shock waves). In rare cases, open surgery may be necessary to remove the stones.

To prevent bladder stones, it is important to ensure adequate fluid intake to regularly empty the bladder. A balanced diet that reduces the accumulation of minerals in the urine is also important. Treating underlying conditions such as prostate enlargement or bladder emptying disorders can help reduce the risk of stone formation.