Urinary retention: causes, diagnosis, and treatment of the symptom
About the symptom
Urinary retention is a condition in which a person experiences difficulty or complete inability to empty the bladder, despite the feeling of fullness. This can lead to significant discomfort and even pain in the abdomen or lower back. It is important to note that urinary retention can manifest against a background of various diseases and conditions, including urinary tract infections, obstructions, neurological issues, or side effects of certain medications.
Symptoms of urinary retention can vary from the feeling of a full bladder to sharp pain sensations. Some patients experience phenomena such as unsuccessful attempts at urination caused by straining. Prolonged urinary retention can lead to more serious consequences, such as stretching of the bladder walls, infections, or even kidney damage. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical attention at the first signs of this symptom for prompt and effective resolution.
Diseases
Urinary retention can be a symptom of various diseases, and its manifestations can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause of the problem. Most often, urinary retention is observed in patients with urinary tract diseases such as urethritis, cystitis, and prostatitis. These diseases can cause inflammatory processes that hinder normal urination. Additionally, urinary retention may be a result of mechanical obstructions, such as tumors or stones in the bladder, which also require timely medical intervention.
Other diseases associated with urinary retention include neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis or spinal injury, which can disrupt the function of the nervous system that controls urination. Such conditions can lead to a discrepancy between the urge to empty the bladder and the actual ability to do so. It is important to undergo diagnostics so that a doctor can determine the exact cause of urinary retention and prescribe appropriate treatment.
- Urethritis
- Cystitis
- Prostatitis
- Urinary tract tumors
- Bladder stones
- Multiple sclerosis
- Spinal injury
- Systemic diseases affecting kidney function
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of urinary retention begins with a thorough collection of medical history and patient examination. The doctor pays attention to the medical history, considering the presence of symptoms such as pain during urination, frequent urges to urinate, or the presence of other comorbidities. It is also important to follow medical protocol, including a comprehensive examination that may help identify the underlying cause of urinary retention. During the diagnosis, both general and specific laboratory and instrumental studies are conducted.
The main diagnostic services provided in medical institutions to identify the causes of urinary retention include:
- Complete blood count and urinalysis
- Ultrasound of the urinary system
- CT or MRI of the abdominal cavity for further anatomical study
- Cystoscopy for visualization of the bladder and urethra
- Urodynamic studies to assess bladder function
Which doctor to contact
If you experience symptoms of urinary retention, it is important not to delay a visit to the doctor, as this may indicate serious health issues. Initially, you should consult a urologist, a specialist who deals with diseases of the urinary system. They will be able to conduct an initial examination and determine the causes of the retention. If necessary, the urologist may refer you to other specialists, depending on the results of tests and examinations.
In some cases, urinary retention may be associated with conditions that require the attention of other medical specialists. For example, if urinary retention is caused by neurological problems, it would be appropriate to consult a neurologist. It is also possible that you may need the help of a therapist or endocrinologist if the retention is related to hormonal imbalances. Therefore, it is important not to self-medicate and to trust your health to professionals.
- Urologist
- Neurologist
- Therapist
- Endocrinologist
- Gynecologist (for women)
- Andrologist (for men)
Types of Urinary Retention
Urinary retention, or urinary retention, can take various forms depending on the causes and mechanisms of its occurrence. The most common types of urinary retention include acute and chronic. Acute urinary retention occurs suddenly and can lead to severe discomfort, as well as requiring emergency medical assistance. It is usually associated with a blockage of the urinary tract, which can be caused by kidney stones, an enlarged prostate in men, or tumors.
Chronic urinary retention develops gradually, and the patient may not realize there is a problem until it becomes more serious. This type of retention can be caused by various conditions, including neurological disorders, infections, or mechanical issues in the urinary tract. Understanding the different types of urinary retention aids in more thorough diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Acute urinary retention
- Chronic urinary retention
- Permanent urinary retention
- Complicated urinary retention
Reasons for Urinary Retention
Urinary retention is a condition in which a person experiences difficulties in urinating, even with the urge and a full bladder. This can be a temporary phenomenon caused by stress or certain physiological factors, but sometimes retention can indicate more serious medical issues. It is important to understand that the causes of urinary retention can vary depending on a person’s gender, age, and health.
One of the most common causes of urinary retention is mechanical obstruction, such as tumors or an enlarged prostate in men. Neurological disorders that affect the nerve pathways controlling the urination process are also possible. In other cases, urinary retention may be caused by urinary tract infections or the effects of certain medications that can suppress the functions of the urinary system.
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)
- Bladder or urethral tumors
- Urinary tract infections
- Neurological diseases (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis)
- Medications (diuretics, antidepressants)
- Functional bladder disorders
Common Related Pathologies
Urinary retention may be a sign of various diseases and pathological conditions that require the attention of specialists. The most common pathologies associated with this symptom may include urological, neurological, and other disorders. For example, prostate inflammation (prostatitis) in men can lead to difficulty in urine flow. In women, a similar situation can sometimes occur against the background of gynecological diseases such as uterine fibroids.
Additionally, urinary retention can be caused by neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis or stroke, which disrupt the connection between the brain and the organs of the urinary system. It is also important to consider the possibility of mechanical obstructions, such as stones in the bladder or urethra, which can block urine flow and cause retention. It is crucial to understand that urinary retention is not a standalone disease, but rather a symptom of a more serious problem that requires diagnosis and a comprehensive approach to treatment.
- Prostatitis
- Uterine fibroids
- Kidney or bladder stones
- Multiple sclerosis
- Stroke
- Neuropathies
- Urethral strictures
Expert Opinion
Urinary retention is a condition that can cause significant discomfort and bring serious problems to a patient’s daily life. It is important to understand that urinary retention is not a standalone disease, but rather a symptom that may indicate various pathologies. According to experts, ignoring urinary retention can lead to a worsening of the condition and an exacerbation of the underlying disease, so it is extremely important to seek medical help as soon as possible.
Qualified specialists recommend not delaying a visit to the doctor if you experience difficulties with urination, especially if accompanied by pain or other unusual symptoms. A urologist or nephrologist will conduct the necessary studies and diagnostics to identify the cause of urinary retention and prescribe adequate treatment. Regular examinations and preventive measures can help avoid serious complications and improve the quality of life.
Treatment of Urinary Retention
Treatment of urinary retention is an important task, as this symptom may indicate various diseases affecting the urinary system. Depending on the cause of urinary retention, the approach to therapy can vary significantly. Generally, detailed diagnostics are necessary to determine the underlying cause of the problem and to properly establish a treatment plan. The doctor may prescribe conservative methods or, in more serious cases, surgical intervention.
Conservative treatment may include the use of medications to relax the bladder, as well as physiotherapy and prescriptions to improve muscle tone that is responsible for the process of urination. It is also important to pay attention to lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity and following a drinking regimen. If urinary retention is related to anatomical features, the doctor may recommend surgical intervention to correct the situation.
- Medication treatment
- Physiotherapy
- Exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles
- Surgical intervention (in case of anatomical disturbances)
- Lifestyle and dietary changes
Complications
Urinary retention can lead to a number of serious complications if a doctor is not consulted and treatment is not started. One of the most significant consequences is the development of acute or chronic kidney damage. With prolonged urinary retention, the pressure in the bladder can increase, which in turn can lead to damage to kidney tissue and the development of various kidney diseases.
In addition, patients may encounter urinary tract infections that can arise from stagnation. These infections can manifest as cystitis or pyelonephritis, which require antibacterial therapy and can lead to additional complications if treatment is not initiated in a timely manner. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to any symptoms of urinary retention and conduct necessary examinations in a timely manner.
- Acute and chronic renal failure
- Urinary tract infections (cystitis, pyelonephritis)
- Bladder ruptures
- Urinary retention due to neurological disorders
- Psychological problems and stress
FAQ
What to do with urinary retention and when should you see a doctor?
When experiencing urinary retention, it is important to immediately assess the severity of the symptom. If the retention is caused by temporary factors, such as stress or dehydration, one can try to relax, drink water, and give oneself time. However, if the patient is troubled by severe bladder pain, a feeling of fullness, and if the retention persists for more than a few hours, it is necessary to seek medical attention immediately. This may be a sign of a serious condition requiring medical intervention, such as a urinary tract blockage or infection.
What are the most common causes of urine retention?
The most common causes of urinary retention can be related to both physical and psychological factors. Among physical causes, there may be obstructions in the urinary tract due to stones or tumors, urinary tract infections, prostate diseases in men, as well as neurological disorders affecting the control of urination. Psychological factors such as stress or anxiety can also contribute to the disruption of the normal urination process. It is important to note that each situation is individual, and it is recommended to consult a doctor to determine the exact cause of urinary retention.
How can urinary retention affect overall health?
Urinary retention can significantly affect overall health, leading to a number of somatic and psychological problems. The accumulation of urine in the bladder can lead to its stretching, pain, and discomfort, as well as increase the risk of urinary tract infections, which can progress to more serious conditions such as pyelonephritis. Chronic urinary retention can also cause kidney problems due to increased pressure on them, as well as lead to the development of conditions such as incontinence or bladder dysfunction. The psychological aspect should also not be ignored: constant worry and stress related to urinary retention can lead to anxiety disorders and a decrease in quality of life.
How can one prevent urinary retention and improve the functioning of the urinary system?
Urinary retention is a condition that can be concerning and requires careful attention to treatment and prevention. To prevent urinary retention and improve the functioning of the urinary system, it is important to follow several recommendations. The first is to maintain a normal drinking regimen, which will help avoid dehydration and promote regular emptying of the bladder. The second is regular physical exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve urinary tract function. The third is adherence to hygiene standards, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of possible infections or diseases that may obstruct normal urine flow. Additionally, it is important to limit the impact of stress and consult a doctor at the first signs of urinary retention for timely diagnosis and treatment.