In chronic retention, the bladder still functions, but you’re unable to fully empty your bladder. There may be no pain, but associated symptoms include a feeling of incomplete emptying, poor stream, urinary frequency and urgency, or difficulty passing urine. Some aren’t aware they can’t empty their bladder fully until incontinence or a urinary infection occur. You should see a doctor immediately if you have acute retention and are unable to pass any urine when your bladder feels full and painful.
High-pressure chronic urinary retention is similar, but the bladder is tense and kidney impairment occurs due to back pressure, which needs urgent drainage.
Urinary retention is more common in men than women, and with ageing, affecting one in 100 men in their 70s, and three in 100 in their 80s.
The causes in men include benign prostatic enlargement, prostate cancer, urethral strictures, infections, constipation, surgery, antidepressants, decongestants, and muscle relaxants – including bladder relaxants used to treat an overactive bladder or incontinence. In women, it can occur following pelvic prolapse, pelvic masses, constipation or with medications as for men. Tests will be needed; the treatment and outcome then depend on that.
Treatment
The GP will take a history and examine you for swellings in the abdomen, plus a genital and rectal examination for prolapse or for enlarged prostate in men. If needed, they’ll put in a urinary catheter and measure the residual volume, test your urine for infection, and do blood tests including kidney function.
Bu hikaye WOMAN'S WEEKLY dergisinin January 05, 2021 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye WOMAN'S WEEKLY dergisinin January 05, 2021 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
Patchwork PROJECTS
Easy ideas to show off English paper-piecing techniques
Night train to BERLIN
Germany's exciting and varied capital is now reachable by train from the UK
French FANCY
Raymond Blanc's right-hand man, Benoit Blin's favourite bakes
Are you missing out on BENEFITS?
Here's how to find out what you are eligible for
TRAY bien
All-in-one tray bakes, packed with flavour
We took a grown-up GAP YEAR!
Who says taking time out is just for students?
'I'm obsessed with reality TV!'
THIS WEEK'S COLUMNIST Author and presenter Louise Minchin
What to eat and do for A HEALTHIER GUT
Fix those problems and boost your wellbeing
Picture palaces
In an age of cinema complexes, we celebrate five historic and beautiful picture houses that have stood the test of time
'My diet during Bake Off is cake and alcohol!'
Dame Prue Leith on the popular baking contest