Bladder stones are caused when minerals build up in the bladder and form into small “stones.” Mostly affecting older males, bladder stones can be uncomfortable, but there are a number of treatment options available.
This article explains how bladder stones are formed. It also covers symptoms, treatments, and ways to reduce the risk of bladder stones.
Fast facts on bladder stones
Here are some key points about bladder stones. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.
- Bladder stones are most common in men over the age of 50
- Underlying medical conditions are often responsible for bladder stones
- Symptoms of bladder stones include a change in urine color and pain when urinating
- Bladder stones are rarer in women
- Bladder stones can be a cause of blood in the urine
What are bladder stones?
Bladder stones, also called vesical calculus, or systolic, are caused by a buildup of minerals. They can occur if the bladder is not completely emptied after urination.
Eventually, the leftover urine becomes concentrated and minerals within the liquid turn into crystals.
Sometimes, these stones will be passed while they are still very small. Other times, bladder stones can get stuck to the wall of the bladder or ureter (a pipe running from the kidney to the bladder).
If this happens, they gradually gather more mineral crystals, becoming larger over time.
Bladder stones can stay in the bladder for some time and do not always cause symptoms. They are often found when an X-ray is carried out for a different medical reason.
