What is a urinary stone?

Urinary stones, also known as urolithiasis, refer to solid masses formed within the urinary system, primarily including kidney stones, ureteral stones, bladder stones, and urethral stones. These stones are typically composed of deposits of minerals and organic substances found in urine, with diverse compositions such as calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, uric acid salts, and others. The formation of urinary stones is associated with multiple factors, including dietary habits, metabolic abnormalities, and infections. When stones move within the urinary system, they may cause symptoms such as pain, hematuria (blood in urine), increased frequency of urination, and urgency. In severe cases, they can even obstruct the urinary tract, leading to serious complications such as hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney) and renal insufficiency. Therefore, sufficient attention should be given to the prevention and treatment of urinary stones.