Bladder stones form when the bladder doesn’t empty completely, causing urine to stagnate and become concentrated. Common causes include:
• Urinary retention: Conditions like an enlarged prostate, bladder dysfunction, or nerve damage can lead to incomplete bladder emptying, increasing the risk of stone formation.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Chronic UTIs can lead to stone formation, particularly in people with underlying bladder issues.
• Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake can cause concentrated urine, making it easier for minerals to form stones.
• Bladder inflammation: Recurrent inflammation or irritation of the bladder lining can contribute to stone development.
• Foreign objects or catheters: Long-term use of a catheter or presence of foreign objects in the bladder can increase the risk.

• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
• Painful urination or difficulty passing urine.
• Frequent urination, especially at night.
• Blood in the urine (hematuria).
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
• In severe cases, urinary tract infections (UTIs) or back pain can occur.

To help prevent bladder stones, consider the following:
• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps dilute urine and reduce the risk of stone formation.
• Empty the bladder fully: Ensure complete bladder emptying when urinating to prevent urine stagnation.
• Good urinary hygiene: Maintain good hygiene to prevent infections that may contribute to stone formation.
• Dietary adjustments: In some cases, limiting foods high in oxalates or calcium may be advised, depending on the type of stone.
• Manage underlying conditions: Proper management of conditions such as an enlarged prostate or diabetes can reduce the risk of bladder stones.

Treatment for bladder stones depends on their size, symptoms, and underlying cause:
• Drinking more fluids: Small stones may pass on their own with increased fluid intake.
• Medications: Alpha-blockers or other medications can help relax the bladder muscles and facilitate stone passage.
• Bladder stone removal: Larger stones may require surgical removal, which can be done through:
o Cystolitholapaxy: A procedure in which the stone is broken up using a small instrument inserted through the urethra.
o Cystotomy: In cases where stones are too large or complicated to break up, surgery through an incision in the bladder may be necessary to remove them.