URINARY RETENTION

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms for urinary retention vary depending on what form it is. 

For acute, the symptoms occur suddenly. You feel like you want to urinate, yet you can’t do it. This results in discomfort and intense pain in your lower abdomen. 

For chronic, the symptoms happen gradually. You can urinate; however, your bladder does not clear or empty totally. You might not even realize that you have this problem since you have no signs at first.

Aside from that, chronic urinary retention can cause complications. See your healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms:

• Your urine stream starts and stops
• Difficulty in beginning your urine stream
• Frequent urination at night
• You feel like you want to urinate again after just finish urinating
• You experience ongoing discomfort and feeling of fullness in your pelvis or lower abdomen
• Urine leaks from the bladder all over the day

DIAGNOSIS

The doctor can diagnose urinary retention by doing a physical exam and asking you about your symptoms. 

When the doctor suspects that you have urinary retention, he/she may request the following tests:

• PVR or post-void residual
• Blood or urine samples
• Ct scan and ultrasound
• Cystoscopy
• Electromyogram
• Urodynamic tests

TREATMENT

The treatment for urinary retention depends on your condition and symptoms. For acute, immediate medical attention is required. The doctor will immediately put a catheter in your bladder to release the urine. This is the fastest and simplest way.

If this procedure doesn’t work or can’t be performed, a tiny tunnel can be created in the skin over the bladder and across the bladder wall. 

The doctor will then apply local anesthesia. Clearing your bladder will make you feel comfortable instantly and will help prevent serious problems. 

If you experience symptoms that affect your way of life, or if you are going through urinary tract problems, these treatments may be administered:

• Catheterization
• Urethral dilation 
• Cystoscope