Bladder  Stone  ब्लैडर की  पथरी 

Urinary bladder stones are solid masses of minerals that form in the bladder due to the accumulation of urine. They can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain and difficulty passing urine. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about urinary bladder stones.

 

What are urinary bladder stones?

Urinary bladder stones, also known as bladder calculi, are hard masses of minerals that form in the bladder. They can vary in size from small pebbles to larger stones that fill the entire bladder. They are made up of different types of minerals such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and phosphate.

 

What are the symptoms of urinary bladder stones?

The symptoms of urinary bladder stones can vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Common symptoms include:

• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen

• Difficulty passing urine

• Frequent urge to urinate

• Blood in the urine

• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

• Inability to urinate

• Pain during urination

 

What causes urinary bladder stones?

Urinary bladder stones can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Dehydration: If you don't drink enough water, your urine becomes concentrated and minerals can crystallize and form stones.

• Urinary tract infections: These can cause inflammation and irritation that can lead to the formation of stones.

• Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as gout, hyperparathyroidism, and inflammatory bowel disease, can increase your risk of developing bladder stones.

• Bladder catheterization: Long-term use of a catheter can increase the risk of bladder stones.

• Prostate enlargement: Men with an enlarged prostate may have difficulty emptying their bladder completely, leading to the formation of stones.

 

How are urinary bladder stones diagnosed?

Urinary bladder stones can be diagnosed through a physical exam, imaging tests, and urine tests. A doctor may perform a digital rectal exam to check for prostate enlargement, and they may order an ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray to look for stones in the bladder. A urine test can also help to identify any signs of infection or blood in the urine.

 

​How are urinary bladder stones treated?

The treatment for urinary bladder stones depends on the size and location of the stone. Small stones may pass on their own, while larger stones may require medical intervention. Treatment options include:

• Medications: If you have an infection, antibiotics can help to clear it up. Medications can also be used to dissolve certain types of stones.

• Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): This non-invasive procedure uses shock waves to break up stones into smaller pieces that can be passed more easily.

• Cystoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a small scope into the bladder to remove stones.

• Surgery: If the stone is too large or cannot be removed with other methods, surgery may be necessary to remove it.

 

Can urinary bladder stones be prevented?

Yes, there are several steps you can take to help prevent the formation of urinary bladder stones. These include:

• Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated can help to prevent the concentration of minerals in the urine.

• Eat a balanced diet: Avoid foods that are high in oxalate, such as spinach, rhubarb, and nuts.

• Manage underlying medical conditions: If you have a medical condition that increases your risk of bladder stones, such as gout or hyperparathyroidism, work with your doctor to manage it effectively.

• Practice good hygiene: Keep your urinary tract clean by wiping from front to back after using the bathroom