Bladder stones

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Definition

Bladder stones are small masses of minerals that form in your bladder, the balloon-shaped organ in your pelvis that stores urine. Bladder stones, also called bladder calculi, often form when concentrated urine sits in your bladder. As urine stagnates, minerals in the urine form various crystals that may combine to form "stones." Bladder stones usually develop secondary to another condition, such as an enlarged prostate or a urinary tract infection.

The incidence of bladder stones in the United States and western Europe has been declining over the past century due to improvements in nutrition and infection control. In these geographic areas, middle-aged and elderly men are at highest risk of developing bladder stones. However, bladder stones remain a common problem in developing countries, especially among children.

Lower abdominal pain and painful urination are common symptoms of bladder stones. Bladder stones are usually removed by your doctor, but small stones may pass on their own. Left untreated, bladder stones can cause infections and other complications.

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