Acute Urinary retention

Urinary retention is an inability to completely empty the bladder.[1] Onset can be sudden or gradual.[1] When of sudden onset, symptoms include an inability to urinate and lower abdominal pain.[1] When of gradual onset, symptoms may include loss of bladder control, mild lower abdominal pain, and a weak urine stream.[1] Those with long-term problems are at risk of urinary tract infections.[1]

 

Urinary retention other names

Ischuria, bladder failure, bladder obstruction

 Specialty: Emergency medicine, urology

Symptoms:Sudden onset: Inability to urinate, low abdominal pain Long term: Frequent urination, loss of bladder control, urinary tract infection[1]

Types: Acute, chronic[1]

Causes: Blockage of the urethra, nerve problems, certain medications, weak bladder muscles[1]

Diagnostic method: Amount of urine in the bladder post urination[1]

Treatment: Catheter, urethral dilation, urethral stents, surgery[1]

Medication: Alpha blockers such as terazosin, 5α-reductase inhibitors such as finasteride[1]