Blogs Book An Apppointment 72-Year-Old Man Successfully Treated for 3 Large Bladder Stones Urinary symptoms should never be ignored, especially when they continue for months. Increased urinary frequency, difficulty passing urine, a weak urine stream, or a feeling that the bladder is not emptying properly may appear to be routine problems with age, but they can sometimes indicate an underlying urinary condition that requires medical attention. A recent case highlights why timely urological evaluation is important. A 72-year-old man presented with increased urinary frequency and difficulty passing urine that had continued for approximately one year. Further evaluation with sonography revealed three large stones in the urinary bladder. The stones were subsequently removed successfully through appropriate surgical treatment. This case is a reminder that persistent urinary symptoms can have an underlying cause. Bladder stones, prostate enlargement, urinary obstruction, infections and other urinary tract conditions can produce similar symptoms. Getting the right diagnosis helps determine the appropriate treatment. What Are Bladder Stones? Bladder stones are hard masses that develop when minerals in urine crystallize and accumulate inside the urinary bladder. They are different from kidney stones, although stones that form in the kidneys can travel through the urinary tract. Bladder stones commonly develop when the bladder does not empty completely, allowing concentrated urine and mineral deposits to remain inside the bladder for longer periods. When urine remains in the bladder instead of being completely passed, minerals can gradually form crystals. Over time, these crystals may combine and grow into stones. Some bladder stones are small and may pass naturally, while larger stones generally require medical treatment and removal. In older men, one important underlying cause can be an enlarged prostate. An enlarged prostate may narrow the urinary passage and make it difficult for the bladder to empty completely. This can create conditions in which bladder stones develop. Other causes include urinary tract infections, nerve-related bladder problems, bladder diverticula and certain medical devices such as catheters. How the Diagnosis Came Together The patient had been dealing with frequency and difficulty passing urine for about a year. It’s easy to mistake symptoms like these for normal aging, which is exactly why persistent urinary problems deserve a proper look rather than being ignored. Sonography was the piece that cracked it open, showing three large stones inside the bladder. Ultrasound is one of the more common tools used to spot them, though depending on findings, a urologist might also order urine tests, blood tests, CT scans, or a cystoscopy. Why does the diagnosis matter so much? Because frequent urination and difficulty passing urine don’t automatically mean bladder stones. The same symptoms can show up with an enlarged prostate, an infection, or other bladder conditions entirely. Which is exactly why a proper exam and the right tests aren’t optional, they’re the whole point. Don’t ignore persistent urinary symptoms- consult Dr. Ninad Tamboli, Urologist in Vashi Book An Apppointment Symptoms Worth Paying Attention To Small stones sometimes cause almost nothing. But as a stone grows, or starts irritating the bladder lining, symptoms tend to become harder to ignore: frequent urination, pain or burning while urinating, trouble starting or keeping a steady stream, discomfort low in the abdomen, blood in the urine, and infections that keep coming back. Difficulty passing urine deserves particular attention in older men. It can signal that urine isn’t flowing the way it should, and if the bladder keeps failing to empty completely, that retained urine is exactly what feeds new stones. So if someone finds themselves dealing with this persistently, the answer isn’t to assume it’s just age. A proper urological assessment gets to the bottom of it. Why Bladder Stones Form The biggest factor behind most bladder stones is incomplete emptying of the bladder. When urine lingers instead of leaving fully, it becomes concentrated, and that’s when minerals start crystallizing into stones. In older men, an enlarged prostate is one of the most frequent culprits. Other contributors include nerve issues affecting bladder function, recurring infections, structural abnormalities, and certain urinary devices. This is exactly why removing a stone isn’t always the end of the story. The underlying reason it formed also needs to be worked out, or there’s a real chance the stones come back. How They’re Diagnosed and Treated Diagnosis usually starts with a detailed look at symptoms and history: how often someone urinates, whether starting is difficult, whether the stream has weakened, whether there’s pain or blood. From there, urine tests, ultrasound, CT scans, or cystoscopy help confirm what’s going on and, just as important, why. Treatment depends on the size and number of stones, their location, and the underlying cause. Small stones sometimes pass naturally. Larger ones usually need removal, often through a procedure called cystolitholapaxy, where a thin, camera equipped instrument is passed through the urinary passage, the stone is broken into smaller pieces using a laser or similar technique, and the fragments are removed or flushed out. Particularly large or hard stones sometimes call for a different surgical approach, decided case by case. In this instance, the three stones found on sonography were removed successfully through surgery. That solved the immediate problem, but follow up is still what helps manage whatever caused the stones to form in the first place. Bladder Stones, Kidney Health, and Prevention Bladder stones mostly stay contained to the bladder, but untreated urinary problems shouldn’t be taken lightly. They can lead to ongoing irritation, blocked urine flow, and recurring infections, all of which put extra strain on the urinary system. Worth clarifying: bladder stones aren’t the same as kidney stones, though both involve the urinary system and are worth having checked. Preventing future stones starts with addressing whatever caused them. Staying adequately hydrated helps keep urine less concentrated, though the right amount varies by individual health. It also helps to avoid regularly holding urine for long stretches, and to check in with a doctor if the bladder ever feels like it isn’t emptying fully. If an enlarged prostate or another condition is behind

Blogs Book An Apppointment Kidney Stone Symptoms in Women Kidney stones can affect anyone, but the symptoms may sometimes be confused with urinary tract infections, menstrual discomfort, or other urinary problems in women. A kidney stone forms when certain minerals and salts in urine become concentrated and form hard crystals. A small stone may pass without causing noticeable symptoms, while a larger stone can cause significant pain when it moves through the urinary tract. Recognising the symptoms early can help women seek appropriate medical care before complications develop. The location and size of the stone often determine how symptoms appear. What Are the Common Kidney Stone Symptoms in Women? The symptoms can vary depending on whether the stone is still inside the kidney or has moved into the ureter. One of the most noticeable symptoms is sudden, intense pain in the side or back. The pain may come in waves and can shift toward the lower abdomen or groin as the stone moves. Some women experience a burning sensation while urinating. There may also be a frequent or urgent need to urinate, particularly when the stone is located close to the bladder. These urinary symptoms can resemble a UTI, which is why proper evaluation is important. Blood in the urine is another possible sign. Urine may appear pink, red, or brown, although blood may sometimes only be detected through a urine test. Nausea and vomiting can occur when severe kidney stone pain affects the body. Kidney Stone Pain in Women: Where Does It Occur? Kidney stone pain is often felt in the back or side, usually below the ribs. It may begin suddenly and become severe. Unlike ordinary muscle pain, renal colic caused by a moving stone can come and go in waves. As the stone travels down the ureter, the pain may move toward the lower abdomen, pelvis, or groin. Some women may also experience discomfort around the vaginal or pelvic region, depending on where the stone is located. The intensity of pain does not necessarily indicate the size of the stone. Even a relatively small stone can cause severe pain if it becomes lodged in a narrow part of the urinary tract. Get timely care for kidney stone symptoms, schedule a consultation with Urology Navi Mumbai today. Book An Apppointment Urinary Symptoms Associated With Kidney Stones When a stone moves toward the lower urinary tract, it can cause changes in urination. A woman may feel an urgent need to urinate or need to visit the bathroom more frequently than usual. Pain or burning while urinating can also occur. In some cases, urine may appear cloudy or have an unusual smell, particularly if an infection is also present. These symptoms can overlap with a urinary tract infection, so it is not advisable to assume that every episode of painful urination is caused by a UTI. A doctor may recommend urine testing and imaging to determine the actual cause. Can Kidney Stones Cause Nausea and Vomiting? Yes. Severe kidney stone pain can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The nerves supplying the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract are connected, and intense pain can trigger digestive symptoms. Nausea may occur alongside waves of back or abdominal pain. Vomiting can become concerning if it prevents a woman from drinking enough fluids, particularly when the urinary tract is already obstructed. If severe pain is accompanied by repeated vomiting, medical evaluation is important to prevent dehydration and assess whether the stone is blocking urine flow. How Are Kidney Stones Diagnosed in Women? Diagnosis usually starts with a review of symptoms and a physical examination. A doctor may ask about the location and pattern of pain, urinary symptoms, previous kidney stones, fluid intake, and other relevant health factors. A urine test can check for blood, signs of infection, and substances associated with stone formation. Blood tests may also be recommended to assess kidney function and identify certain metabolic abnormalities. Imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans can help identify the location and size of a kidney stone and determine whether it is causing an obstruction. The choice of imaging depends on the individual situation. What Causes Kidney Stones in Women? Kidney stones develop when substances in urine become concentrated enough to form crystals. Several factors can increase the likelihood of stone formation. Not Drinking Enough Water Low fluid intake makes urine more concentrated, increasing the chance that minerals will form crystals. Regular hydration is an important part of kidney stone prevention. High Salt Intake A diet high in sodium can increase the amount of calcium released into urine, which may contribute to certain types of kidney stones. Limiting excess salt can therefore be helpful for people who are prone to stones. Certain Dietary Factors Depending on the type of stone, high intake of certain foods or excessive animal protein may contribute to stone formation. Dietary recommendations should ideally be based on the type of stone and individual risk factors. Family History and Previous Stones Women who have previously developed kidney stones may have a greater risk of developing them again. A family history of kidney stones can also increase susceptibility. Certain Medical Conditions Some medical conditions can alter the balance of minerals and chemicals in urine, increasing the risk of stones. Recurrent stones may therefore require evaluation for underlying causes. When Should a Woman See a Doctor for Kidney Stone Symptoms? Mild symptoms may sometimes occur with a small stone that can pass naturally, but severe or persistent symptoms should be medically assessed. Immediate attention is particularly important when intense pain occurs with fever or chills. Fever and chills can indicate a urinary infection. When infection occurs alongside urinary obstruction, it can become a serious medical problem requiring urgent treatment. Medical evaluation is also recommended if there is persistent vomiting, difficulty passing urine, significant blood in the urine, worsening pain, or symptoms that do not improve. How Are Kidney Stones Treated in Women? Treatment depends on the stone’s size, location, composition, symptoms, and whether