Urinary retention consultation

Urinary retention is a condition where a person finds it difficult or impossible to empty their bladder completely. It can be either acute, appearing suddenly, or chronic, developing over time. When someone experiences urinary retention, it often feels like they need to urinate but are unable to do so fully, causing discomfort and sometimes pain.

The symptoms of urinary retention can vary. In acute cases, there is usually a sudden inability to urinate, which might lead to severe abdominal pain and bloating. In chronic cases, symptoms might include a weak or slow urine stream, frequent trips to the bathroom, a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, and urinary leakage or overflow incontinence. Some individuals might also experience difficulty starting the urination process or feel an urgent need to urinate without being able to pass much urine.

Treating urinary retention depends on its underlying cause. In acute cases, immediate medical intervention is necessary, often involving catheterization to relieve the bladder. For chronic urinary retention, treatments might include medications to relax the bladder muscles or procedures to remove obstructions, such as an enlarged prostate in men. In some cases, lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, or bladder training can help manage the condition. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for diagnosing and determining the best treatment plan for urinary retention.