Where is the pain usually felt with bladder stones?

Nov 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
Introduction
In general, bladder stones may cause pain in the lower abdomen, perineal area, urethra, waist, and suprapubic region. If necessary, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo treatment under professional guidance. When bladder stones pass into the urethra with the urine, they can irritate and rub against the urethral mucosa, which is typically sensitive, thereby causing significant pain.

In general, bladder stones may cause pain in areas such as the lower abdomen, perineum, urethra, waist, and suprapubic region. If necessary, timely medical consultation is recommended for treatment under medical guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Lower Abdominal Pain

The bladder is located in the lower abdomen. When stones are present in the bladder, they can irritate the bladder mucosa. The bladder mucosa contains abundant sensory nerve endings, which, when stimulated, generate pain signals. This type of pain is usually dull or aching and may occur intermittently. If the stone moves frequently and causes strong irritation, the pain may persist and worsen.

2. Perineal Pain

Because the bladder and perineum share some nerve supply, pain caused by bladder stones can radiate to the perineum through nerve conduction. This is especially likely when the stone blocks the bladder outlet or irritates nerves around the bladder neck. The pain may be accompanied by a feeling of pressure or fullness, and in male patients, it may radiate to the scrotum.

3. Urethral Pain

When bladder stones pass into the urethra with the urine flow, they can irritate and rub against the urethral mucosa. Since the urethral mucosa is highly sensitive, this friction can cause significant pain. This pain is usually sharp and stabbing, and its location may change as the stone moves.

4. Back Pain

Although bladder stones are primarily located in the bladder, if they cause severe urinary tract obstruction leading to hydronephrosis, the increased pressure within the renal pelvis can compress surrounding tissues and nerves, resulting in back pain. This pain may feel like a dull ache or soreness and is typically more pronounced on one side of the back.

5. Suprapubic Pain

The suprapubic region is the surface projection area of the bladder. When bladder stones cause cystitis or excessive bladder distension, they can stimulate the peritoneum or surrounding tissues above the pubic bone, leading to pain in the suprapubic region. The pain may manifest as tenderness or a dull ache.

In daily life, it is advisable to increase fluid intake. Drinking more water can dilute the concentration of stone-forming substances in urine and reduce crystal deposition.