Bladder Stones

Bladder stones are formed when waste products in urine form crystals in the bladder. The crystals become too large to be flushed out of the body especially if trapped in the narrow urethra. Men above 45 years suffer from bladder stones the most.

Bladder stones can form in healthy individuals for no particular reason. However, a small change in acidity in urine triggered by poor diet or lack of water can form one.

A bladder stone can also develop if urine stagnates in the bladder. This may be due to an enlarged prostate gland pressing on the bladder. This forms a “blind pouch” which creates a portion of the bladder from which urine cannot entirely empty.

Bladder Stones Symptoms

If a bladder stone is formed, it may block the emptying of the bladder. This can cause pain in the back or hip, tip of the penis or scrotum in men. The pain can be dull or sharp and is often made worse by sudden movement and exercise. Some of the more common symptoms include:

• Pain when passing urine
• Frequent and urgent need to empty the bladder and
• Blood in the urine.

Bladder Stones Treatment

Bladder stones need to be broken down in order to flush them out of the body. There are two procedures for this, Cystoscopy and Lithotripsy. Both procedures break down the bladder stones in to smaller sizes to either remove them surgically or through the urine.

Bladder Stones Prevention

About 60% of those who get bladder stones will probably develop another within seven years. Drinking large amounts of fluids can keep you properly hydrated helping to prevent more stones from forming.

Since most stones contain a high percentage of calcium, following a diet low in calcium can help. If the stone contained uric acid, a diet low in meat, fish and poultry is usually recommended.

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