Understanding the Key Signs and Symptoms of Urethral Stones
What Are Urethral Stones?
Urethral stones—also known as urethral calculi—are relatively uncommon but clinically significant urinary tract obstructions that occur when mineral deposits become lodged within the urethra. Unlike kidney or bladder stones, which form upstream, urethral stones are often either passed down from the upper urinary tract or develop directly in the urethra due to chronic irritation, infection, or urinary stasis. Recognizing their symptoms early is essential for timely intervention and to prevent complications such as urinary retention, stricture formation, or even acute kidney injury.
Top 5 Warning Signs You May Have a Urethral Stone
1. Acute Urinary Obstruction and Straining to Urinate
One of the most immediate and alarming symptoms is difficulty initiating or maintaining urine flow. A stone lodged near the external urethral meatus—or anywhere along the narrow urethral canal—can partially or completely block urine passage. Patients often report an urgent need to urinate followed by weak stream, intermittent flow, or complete inability to void. In severe cases, this may progress to acute urinary retention, requiring emergency catheterization.
2. Severe, Sharp Pain During Urination (Dysuria)
Pain is typically sharp, burning, or stabbing—and often intensifies at the peak of urination. This urethral dysuria differs from general bladder discomfort: it's localized, intense, and frequently radiates to the tip of the penis in men or the vulvar region in women. The pain arises from direct mechanical irritation and spasm of the urethral smooth muscle as urine forces its way past the stone.
3. Visible or Microscopic Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)
As the stone moves or remains fixed, it abrades the delicate urothelial lining, causing microscopic or gross hematuria. You might notice pink-, red-, or cola-colored urine, especially at the end of urination (terminal hematuria). While not always painful, persistent hematuria warrants prompt urological evaluation to rule out other serious conditions—including malignancy.
4. Palpable or Visible Urethral Mass
In anterior urethral stones—particularly in males—the calculus may become impacted just beneath the skin of the penile shaft or glans. This can present as a firm, tender, movable nodule that patients or clinicians can feel during physical exam. In some cases, the stone may even be visible through the urethral opening, especially if associated with swelling or discharge.
5. Recurrent or Persistent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Stones act as bacterial biofilm reservoirs—especially in anatomical niches like urethral diverticula, which are more common in women. When a stone becomes trapped in such a pouch, it creates a breeding ground for pathogens. Affected individuals often experience recurring UTIs, characterized by frequent urgency, suprapubic pressure, foul-smelling urine, low-grade fever, and sometimes pelvic pain. Left untreated, these infections can ascend to the kidneys or trigger chronic inflammation.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you experience any combination of the above—especially inability to urinate, severe pain, or visible blood in your urine—seek urgent medical attention. Delayed treatment increases risks of urethral trauma, strictures, sepsis, or renal impairment. A board-certified urologist can confirm diagnosis using ultrasound, retrograde urethrography, or flexible cystoscopy—and offer tailored solutions ranging from conservative hydration and alpha-blockers to minimally invasive stone extraction or lithotripsy.