causes of retention of urine - #15076
I am just really worried about this whole situation with the retention of urine. It began a few weeks ago when I noticed I was having trouble emptying my bladder completely, like I'd go, but then I would still feel like I needed to go again right after. At first, I thought maybe I just drank too much water, ya know? But it hasn't really gone away. I also feel a bit of pressure in my lower abdomen sometimes and, honestly, it's getting kinda uncomfortable. I went to my doctor, and they mentioned some possible causes of retention of urine but didn’t really elaborate, which left me feeling a bit lost. They did some tests, and I happen to have normal blood sugar and no infections, but I really want to understand what are the common causes of retention of urine. I've read a few things online that talked about prostate issues in men, but I'm a woman, and I'm not sure if that applies to me! Could it be something like nerve damage? Or is it just stress? There was a time I was under a lot of pressure at work, but I don’t know if that could cause that?! It's frustrating trying to figure this out. What are the main causes of retention of urine that I should be aware of? Thanks for any help, I’m really starting to feel anxious about this.
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Doctors’ responses
Urinary retention can indeed be frustrating, and understanding its potential causes can help. In women, retention of urine can result from several factors. One common cause is pelvic organ prolapse, where bladder, uterus, or rectal tissues drop due to weakening of pelvic muscles, potentially blocking urine flow. Another possibility is medications, particularly those that affect nerve signals to the bladder, like antihistamines, some antidepressants, or muscle relaxants. Neurological conditions are another aspect; conditions like multiple sclerosis, stroke, or spinal cord injuries can interfere with nerve signals necessary for bladder function. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate symptoms, but they’re less likely to be the primary cause. Severe stress can affect muscle tension and indirectly contribute to urinary issues, but it’s essential to rule out physiological causes first. Less common causes include urethral strictures or bladder stones that could physically impede flow. Infections like urinary tract infections (UTIs), though often associated with more urgency and pain, can sometimes lead to retention, but you’ve mentioned that’s been ruled out. It’s crucial to follow up with your doctor for an in-depth examination and possibly a referral to a urologist or neurologist, if necessary, to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms. They might recommend imaging studies like ultrasounds, or urodynamic tests to assess bladder function and structure. Given your symptoms, seeking further professional evaluation is key to addressing and managing this condition effectively.
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