urinary retention: what is this, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Urination – difficulty with flow; Delayed urination; Hesitancy; Difficulty initiating urination

Urinary retention is a problem, which occurs, when a person has difficulty urinating. This can be caused by various factors, including nerve damage, problems with the prostate, bladder problems or medication side effects. In this article, we will look at the reasons, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for urinary retention.

What is urinary retention?

Urinary retention, also known as urinary retention, is a disease, in which a person has difficulty emptying the bladder. This may be a temporary or chronic condition., which can lead to discomfort, pain and even serious complications, if left untreated.

Causes of urinary retention

Urinary retention can be caused by various factors.. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Nerve damage. Injury to the bladder nerve or surrounding muscles can cause urinary retention. This can happen due to various conditions, including diabetes, stroke, multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury.
• prostate problems. In men, an enlarged prostate can cause pressure on the bladder and make it difficult to urinate..
• Problems with the bladder. Diseases of the bladder, such as bladder stones, tumors or inflammation, can lead to urinary retention.
• Medicines. Some medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants and opioids, may cause urinary retention as a side effect.
• Weak bladder muscles. Weak bladder muscles may be the result of aging or childbirth and may make it difficult to empty the bladder completely..

Symptoms of urinary retention

Symptoms of urinary retention can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

• Difficulty starting to urinate
• Weak or slow urine flow
• Dribbling after urination
• Feeling, that the bladder is not empty after urination.
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen
• The need to strain or push, to start urinating

When to contact a healthcare professional

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. If urinary retention is not treated, it can lead to serious complications, including urinary tract infections, bladder damage and kidney problems.

Questions, that your doctor may ask

To diagnose urinary retention, the doctor may ask a series of questions about your symptoms and medical history. Some general questions, that your doctor may ask, include:

• When did you first notice the symptoms?
• Have you experienced pain or discomfort while urinating?
• Have you had a history of bladder or prostate problems?
• Are you taking any medication, that can cause symptoms?
• Have you had any recent trauma or injury to your pelvis?
• Have you had any recent surgeries or medical procedures, associated with the urinary tract?

Diagnosis of urinary retention

To diagnose urinary retention, the doctor may conduct a physical examination, as well as various tests. These tests may include:

• Analysis of urine. A urinalysis can help determine if there is an infection in the urinary tract..
• Bladder Scan. A bladder scan can help determine, whether urine remains in the bladder after urination.
• Urodynamic study. A urodynamic study measures the pressure and flow of urine in the urinary tract and can help determine the cause of urinary retention..
• Cystoscopy. During cystoscopy, a thin tube with a camera is inserted into the urethra and bladder., which can help identify any blockages or abnormalities in the urinary tract.

Treatment of urinary retention

Treatment for urinary retention will depend on the underlying cause of the condition.. Some common treatment options include:

• Medicines. In some cases, to treat the underlying disease, causing urinary retention, They can be assigned to medication, such as alpha blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors or antibiotics.
• Catheterization. Catheterization is a procedure, in which a thin tube is inserted into the urethra, which helps drain the bladder. It may be necessary, if the bladder cannot empty itself.
• Surgery. In cases, when an enlarged prostate causes urinary retention, surgery may be needed to remove excess tissue and relieve pressure on the bladder.
• nerve stimulation. nerve stimulation, also known as neuromodulation, is a treatment option, which includes nerve stimulation, controlling the bladder, which can help improve bladder function.

Home treatment for urinary retention

In addition to medication, there are several home remedies., which can relieve the symptoms of urinary retention. These include:

• Bladder training. Bladder training involves gradually increasing the time between trips to the toilet., which can help improve bladder function.
• Kegel exercises. Kegel exercises involve contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles, what can help strengthen muscles, controlling urination.
• Fluid regulation. Drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding caffeine and alcohol can help reduce symptoms of urinary retention..
• Warm baths. Taking a warm bath or using a heating pad on your lower abdomen can help relax muscles and relieve discomfort..

Prevention of urinary retention

Although it is not possible to prevent all cases of urinary retention, there are several steps, you can take, to reduce the risk of developing this condition. These include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight can put extra pressure on your bladder and increase your risk of urinary retention..
• Compliance with hygiene rules: washing your genitals regularly can help reduce your risk of urinary tract infections, which can lead to urinary retention.
• Avoidance of stimuli. Avoidance of stimuli, such as tobacco, certain foods and drinks, may help reduce the risk of bladder irritation and inflammation.

Conclusion

Urinary retention is a disease, which may cause discomfort, pain and even serious complications, if left untreated. Understanding the reasons, symptoms and treatment options for urinary retention, people can take steps, to relieve your symptoms and prevent the condition from occurring in the future.

If you are experiencing urinary retention symptoms, it is important to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Used sources and literature

Elsamra SE. Evaluation of the urologic patient: history and physical examination. In: Party AW, Domochowski RR, Kavousi LR, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 1.

Smith PP, Kuchel GA. Aging of the urinary tract. In: HM starts, Rockwood K, Young J, eds. Brocklehurst’s Textbook of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier, 2017:chap 22.