Bladder Stones

Bladder stones are diagnosed using a combination of physical exams, imaging, and lab tests. Common steps include:

Physical Exam: Your doctor may:
- Feel your lower abdomen to check for an enlarged bladder (distension)
- Perform a rectal exam to assess whether your prostate is enlarged
- Discuss urinary symptoms you may be experiencing
Urine Test: A urine sample is checked for:
- Microscopic blood
- Bacteria
- Crystallized minerals
- Signs of urinary tract infections, which can cause or result from bladder stones
CT Scan: Uses X-rays and computer technology to detect even very small stones. It is one of the most sensitive tests for identifying all types of bladder stones.
Ultrasound: Sound waves create images of your bladder to help detect stones.
X-ray: Helps identify bladder stones and check the kidneys and ureters. Some stones may not be visible on conventional X-rays.

Treatment depends on the size of the stone, underlying causes, and whether it can pass naturally.

Drinking Plenty of Water: Small stones may pass naturally with increased hydration. However, if bladder emptying is difficult, water alone may not be enough.
Breaking Stones Apart:
- You receive numbing medication or general anesthesia.
- A small tube with a camera is inserted into your bladder.
- A laser, ultrasound, or other device breaks the stone into small pieces that are flushed from the bladder.
Surgical Removal:
- For large or hard stones that cannot be broken up, surgery may be necessary.
- If stones are caused by bladder outlet obstruction or an enlarged prostate, these issues are treated simultaneously, often with surgery.

Overview