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Bladder stones in seniors: The effects, treatment and care options



Bladder stones are mineral build-ups in the bladder that cause discomfort and pain. Apart from the build-ups, some underlying medical conditions can also cause urinary tract infections and bladder stones.

How can bladder stones affect men above 50?

 Unfortunately, bladder stones are observed more in older men than in any other age group. Causing excruciating pain disrupts their daily life entirely, bladder stones are one of the major concerns in elders' lives. Not just the painful complications but this condition can lead to kidney failure in seniors. The number of treatment options for bladder stones in seniors and this blog helps you the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and caring options.

 How are the bladder stones formed?

 The unemptied bladder is the primary reason behind these stones. When the bladder is not fully emptied, the remaining urine becomes concentrated, turning the minerals into tiny crystals. This accumulation occurs over some time, making the small crystals become stones. Small crystals and small stones get pushed through the ureter and then out of the system.

 Bladder stones are a condition that does not show symptoms in the early stages. Discomfort in urination is the most common symptom in the previous days of stone formation. Unable to empty the bladder, taking a long time to start the urine stream, discomfort in the abdomen, blood in the urine, and irregular urination.

Apart from the unemptied bladder being a reason for bladder stones in seniors, the other medical conditions can lead to this condition.

●     People with kidney stones - The migrated stones from the kidney can enter into the bladder and even the ureter.

●     Enlarged prostate - Enlarged prostate does not directly cause kidney stones, but it makes emptying the bladder difficult for the person.

●     Bladder and urinary tract infections - Infections inside the bladder and urinary tract can contribute to kidney stones.

Apart from these conditions, seniors who need catheters and other tubes and injuries that affect the nervous communication system can cause stones in the bladder.

 What is the diagnosis of bladder stones?

 The urology specialist will conduct various physical and imagery tests to conclude the presence of this condition. Usually, the person might need to undergo tests, including urinalysis, CT scan, ultrasound, and x-ray. In some cases, the doctor might prescribe an intravenous pyelogram in which a fluid is injected in veins, and the signs of bladder stones are observed based on the flow.

 What are the different treatment options for bladder stones?

 The treatment for bladder stones is entirely dependent on the type, location, and size of the stone. Stones in smaller sizes do not need treatment. The person can drink plenty of water to flush the crystals out of the body. Medical help is needed for the stones that are unable to pass through due to their size. The doctor might look for options to break the stone and make them pass or go for surgical treatment.

 Breaking the stone - The surgeon uses a small tube with a camera and inserts it into the bladder to see the bladder stones. Then using a laser or ultrasound device, the specialist will break the stone into pieces.

Surgical removal - This method is used when the stone is too big to break into pieces. The doctor uses surgical procedures to remove the stones.

 How to prevent bladder stones?

 Certain lifestyle changes can help seniors avoid these stones. Eating diet-rich foods, frequently hydrating, using less salt in nutrition, and altogether avoiding processed and packaged foods and drinks is the way to go.

 How to care for bladder stones?

 Drinking plenty of water is a proven remedy for before and after the diagnosis of bladder stones. Your doctor will suggest the amount of water you should consume and strictly stick to those measures. During the early stages of diagnosis, you can use the double-void technique where the person needs to try urinating again and again with a 20-30 seconds gap. Also, try urinating in a sitting position as it helps your prostate relax more and allows the urine to pass through without interruption.  

 Many home healthcare service providers offer nursing care at home where the trained nurses help your elders with bladder stones take care of themselves.

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