Urine Retention (Inability To Urinate)

Description

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.

Symptoms

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

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests will be done to establish the diagnosis.

Treatment

Therapy is aimed at relieving the obstruction and reversing the cause of the retention. Treatment may include: catheter insertion in the bladder, antibiotics, and 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.

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