unable to urinate home remedies - #19272
I am feeling really worried because I’ve been unable to urinate for almost a day now. I know this might sound weird, but I thought it was just a temporary thing like when you drink too much water, but it’s so frustraiting! I tried sitting on the toilet for ages, but nothing happens, and now I'm starting to freak out a bit. I’ve drank some herbal teas hoping that would help but it's not working. My friend suggested some home remedies for being unable to urinate, like trying to increase my fluid intake more or even something about hot compresses on my lower abdomen. Does anyone know if those home remedies actually work? I’ve also read about some other natural stuff but honestly, I'm lost right now. Should I just keep drinking water or would another home remedy be more effective? I don’t currently have any pain or anything serious (thank goodness) but this is just so frustrating and kind of embarrassing. Someone please help! What home remedies for being unable to urinate can I actually try before I freak out and go to the doctor? I just want it to resolve without making a big deal out of it!
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Doctors' responses
When you’re having trouble urinating, it’s important to address any underlying issues that might be causing this. Sometimes stress or anxiety can cause urinary retention, but it shouldn’t be ignored if it lasts for a prolonged period like you’re experiencing. The use of herbal teas or increasing fluid intake can potentially help if dehydration or mild urinary discomfort was the cause, but these aren’t definitive remedies for urinary retention. Applying a warm compress to the lower abdomen might help relax the muscles and potentially allow you to urinate easier. Likewise, a warm sitz bath can do the same by helping to relax both the bladder and pelvic muscles. However, these are more supportive measures and not guaranteed fixes, especially if there’s a more serious underlying cause. It’s extremely important to be aware that being unable to urinate despite having the urge, especially if it’s been going on for a whole day, can potentially be a medical emergency. Immediate attention may be required as urinary retention can risk causing damage to the bladder or kidneys. Therefore, if you find this happening repeatedly or for prolonged periods, do consider seeking medical attention without delay. A healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and might perform a bladder scan to understand if there’s an underlying blockage or other issue. Addressing tract infections, prostate issues, or medications are aspects they’d consider in diagnosing urinary retention. Given the possible serious nature and the prolonged period you’ve been experiencing difficulties, I would recommend reaching out to a healthcare professional as soon as feasible.
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