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Urinary Retention
Urinary retention is often seen in the emergency room as an acute or sudden problem. The sudden inability to urinate is seen most commonly in males, secondary to enlargement of the prostate gland. The prostate gland is a gland found in males between the base of the penis and the anus. It secretes fluid that becomes part of the semen during ejaculation. The prostate gland is located anatomically "around" the urethra (a tube which empties urine from the bladder). Any swelling or enlargement of the prostate can "pinch off" the urine flow through the urethra. Urinary retention may also be seen in FEMALES secondary to a drug side effect, after vaginal childbirth, or after surgery. Common symptoms include lower abdominal pain, swelling, and the inability to void. Males may have dribbling, or voiding of very small amounts of urine. Treatment is EMERGENT and involves placement of a flexible, rubber catheter into the bladder via the urethra to drain or free the trapped urine. Relief is instantaneous. Males with prostate problems usually require the use of the catheter for several days. A small bag is attached to the inside pant leg to act as a urine reservoir until the prostate swelling has decreased. Women may perform intermittent catheterization after being taught the procedure by a nurse. The occasional introduction of a thin, short tube into the urethral orifice will drain the urine until normal bladder function returns. Failure to relieve acute urinary retention can result in bladder rupture, secondary urinary tract infection, or damage to the kidneys. Males and females with urinary retention require evaluation by a Urologist. Acute urinary retention requires IMMEDIATE medical evaluation and treatment.
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