In many cases, bladder stones result from kidney stones moving down the ureter with the urine flow and then falling into the bladder. While small stones may not be dangerous and can be naturally expelled, large stones cannot be expelled naturally. They remain in the bladder, continuing to crystallize minerals and sediment in the urine, gradually increasing in size and becoming solid.

These stones can cause serious complications such as urinary obstruction, infection, acute or chronic bladder inflammation, acute urinary retention, urinary tract infection, or kidney failure due to stone obstruction leading to back pressure on the kidneys.

Patients may experience symptoms such as a dull ache and heaviness in the lower abdomen, sharp pain in the genital area, frequent, difficult, or incomplete urination, cloudy urine, foul-smelling urine, or blood in the urine. In some cases, stones can move within the bladder, causing a sensation of obstruction or increased pain when changing positions.

Doctor Truc (left) performs endoscopic stone removal surgery for a patient. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*.

Medical treatment is only applicable for bladder stones smaller than 10 mm. With a 19 mm stone, surgical intervention is necessary. Depending on the stone's size, hardness, and the patient's condition, doctors may treat stones using methods such as minimally invasive retrograde laser lithotripsy, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, or open surgery to remove the stone. Therefore, you need to visit a hospital for a doctor's examination and consultation on the most suitable treatment method. Since the stone has fallen into the bladder, you can try urinating in a sitting position instead of standing, which may help prevent the stone from blocking the bladder neck and make urination easier while awaiting treatment.

You should drink about two to three liters of water daily to dilute urine and reduce the risk of calcium oxalate crystallization, the most common type of stone. Increase consumption of green vegetables and fruits, reduce salt intake to less than 5 grams a day (equivalent to one teaspoon), and limit oxalate and purine-rich foods like red meat and organ meats. Engage in regular physical activity, and avoid being overweight or obese.

Bladder stones can affect all ages, with a higher risk for men over 50. This is especially true for those with an enlarged prostate, which prevents the bladder from emptying completely during urination, leading to prolonged urine stagnation and stone formation. Individuals who have undergone bladder surgery, have neurological conditions affecting bladder function, or have a history of kidney stones are also at risk. If symptoms such as difficult urination, intermittent urination, frequent nighttime urination, or a dull ache in the lower abdomen appear, patients should seek hospital care for ultrasound, urine tests, and timely treatment to avoid complications.

Dr. Pham Thanh Truc

Department of Urology

Urology - Nephrology - Andrology Center

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM