Can Kidney Stones Cause Recurrent UTI?

Yes. Kidney stones can contribute to recurrent UTIs, particularly when they cause urinary obstruction or provide a site where bacteria can persist. Certain infection-related stones, such as struvite stones, are directly associated with bacteria that can promote stone formation.

Kidney stones and UTIs can sometimes be closely connected. A stone may contribute to repeated infections in several ways:

• Urinary obstruction: A stone that blocks or partially obstructs urine flow can make it harder for the urinary tract to clear infection effectively.
• Bacteria associated with stones: Some bacteria can contribute to the formation and growth of infection stones, particularly struvite stones.
• Persistent bacteria: Bacteria may remain associated with stone material, allowing infections to recur even after temporary improvement.
• Urinary tract changes: Stones can cause irritation, obstruction, or other changes that make recurrent infection more likely.
• Associated urinary problems: Recurrent UTIs may occur alongside other conditions such as urinary retention or structural abnormalities.

The EAU notes that stones and urinary tract obstruction are important UTI risk factors, particularly when they increase the likelihood of treatment failure or a difficult clinical course.

Infection stones are a particular concern. Struvite stones are associated with urease-producing bacteria, which can alter urine chemistry and promote stone formation. When infection stones are present, treating the infection alone may not be enough; the stone itself may need to be removed as completely as possible.

If UTIs repeatedly return along with kidney stone symptoms, blood in the urine, fever, back or side pain, or difficulty passing urine, further evaluation may be needed to determine whether a stone or obstruction is contributing to the infections.

SCI International Hospital

At SCI International Hospital, Dr. Gautam Banga evaluates patients with recurrent UTIs and considers whether kidney stones, urinary obstruction, incomplete bladder emptying, or another urological condition could be contributing to repeated infections. When appropriate, urine testing and imaging may be used to identify the underlying problem and determine whether the stone requires treatment.