Urine retention (inability to urinate)

About Urine retention (inability to urinate)

The inability to empty the bladder. Urinary retention can be caused by an obstruction in the urinary tract or by nerve problems that interfere with signals between the brain and the bladder. There are many causes, and the disorder can occur over a long period of time (chronic) or abruptly (acute). People with chronic retention are able to urinate but the stream is decreased and many times they cannot empty the bladder completely. Acute retention is an emergency since the kidneys can fail if the urine is not able to drain. In men, an enlarged prostate is the most common reason for urinary retention.

Symptoms

Lower abdominal pain, flank pain, lower abdominal distension, dribbling of urine, urinary frequency.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. A bladder ultrasound and/or catheter insertion to measure the amount of urine retained in the bladder after voiding. Blood tests for BUN and creatinine to assess kidney function.

Common tests: CT Scan, Urinalysis (UA), Ultrasound.

Conventional treatment summary

Therapy is aimed at relieving the obstruction and reversing the cause of the retention. Initial treatment is insertion of a catheter into the bladder. Antibiotics are given if the urine is infected. Men with an enlarged prostate may require surgery. For additional information contact the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse at: http://www.kidney.niddk.nih.gov or call (800)891-5390.

Medical specialties

Internal Medicine · Urology · Pediatrics · Family Practice

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Urine retention (inability to urinate).