Bladder Stones
Bladder stones are hard mineral deposits that form inside the bladder when urine becomes concentrated or fails to empty completely. They can develop from bladder outlet obstruction, chronic infections, foreign bodies, or long-standing urinary retention. Some stones cause no symptoms, while others lead to pain, blood in the urine, or difficulty urinating. Imaging is often used to detect stones and evaluate the underlying cause.
What is it?
Bladder stones form when urine sits in the bladder too long or becomes highly concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize. Stones may be small and pass on their own, or they can grow large and cause significant symptoms. Common causes include prostate enlargement, urethral stricture, neurogenic bladder, recurrent infections, or foreign material within the bladder.
Imaging helps identify the size, number, and location of stones, as well as any associated bladder wall thickening or obstruction. CT is the most sensitive test for detecting even small stones, while ultrasound and X-rays may show larger or denser stones. Cystoscopy allows direct visualization and can be used to remove stones when needed.
Important to Know
Bladder stones rarely form without an underlying issue. Correcting the root cause—such as treating prostate enlargement, infections, or urinary retention—helps prevent stones from returning. Hydration and complete bladder emptying are also important preventive measures.
Red flag symptoms include fever, inability to urinate, severe pelvic pain, or blood clots in the urine. These may indicate infection, obstruction, or other complications requiring prompt medical evaluation. Follow-up imaging may be recommended after treatment to ensure the bladder is clear.