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Urinary Tract Infections and Bladder Stones - This is the Difference
Urinary tract infections and bladder stones are two related conditions in the urinary tract. The two are considered interrelated because they have cause and effect. Bladder stones are thought to be a cause of urinary tract infections. Although the two are thought to be related, in fact, both urinary tract infections and bladder stones are different conditions. Therefore, know what the difference is between the two. Bladder stones and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are two common but different medical conditions that can affect the urinary tract system. Bladder stones are hard deposits that form in the bladder, causing pain and discomfort as they pass through the urinary tract. These stones typically consist of crystallized, lumpy minerals and salts and can vary in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. On the other hand, a UTI is a bacterial infection that attacks the entire urinary tract, including the bladder, urethra, and kidneys.
Although these two conditions may have similarities in terms of symptoms, causes, and risk factors, it is important to differentiate them for proper diagnosis and treatment. In this discussion, we will learn the differences between bladder stones and UTIs, including symptoms, causes, and treatment. Read on to learn more about this disease.
What is the difference between urinary tract infections and bladder stones?
It is important to remember that these symptoms can vary between sufferers, and not everyone experiences all of the symptoms. The following are common symptoms associated with these two conditions:
1. Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection
- Frequent urination.
- Burning sensation or pain when urinating.
- Uncontrollable feeling of needing to urinate.
- Urine smells bad or is cloudy in color.
- Pain or pressure in the pelvic area or lower abdomen.
- Pain in the back or side of the body (if the infection involves the kidneys).
- Fever, chills, or feeling weak (more common symptoms of more serious urinary tract infections).
2. Symptoms of Bladder Stones
- Pain when urinating.
- Pain appears in the pelvic area or lower abdomen.
- Pain that radiates to the back or side of the body.
- Frequent urination.
- Difficulty starting or stopping the flow of urine.
- Bloody urine.
- Nausea and vomiting (which occur if bladder stones block urine flow).
How are urinary tract infections and bladder stones treated?
Treatment of urinary tract infections generally involves administering antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. The type of antibiotic and duration of treatment will depend on the type and severity of the infection. Meanwhile, bladder stone treatment options include consuming lots of fluids, taking medication, and endourological surgical procedures. However, treatment may be different for pregnant women. That's the difference between urinary tract infections and bladder stones. If you feel symptoms that point to one of these conditions, immediately have your health checked at the Hermina Pasteur Hospital.
Made by: Dr. . Tri Sasangka Putra
Reviewed by: Dr.Ahmad Kusumaputra, Sp.U., M.Ked.Klin, FICS
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