Urinary Retention

Definition

Urinary retention is a condition in which the bladder is unable to completely empty, resulting in difficulty urinating or the need to urinate frequently without the ability to do so. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and potential complications such as urinary tract infections. The mechanisms of urinary retention are often influenced by changes in the nervous system and can be linked to various medications that affect muscle control or nerve signals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Urinary retention can be classified as acute or chronic, with acute retention being a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
2. Certain medications, particularly anticholinergics and some opioids, can cause urinary retention as a side effect by reducing bladder muscle activity.
3. In men, conditions like BPH are common causes of urinary retention due to the prostate pressing against the urethra.
4. Symptoms may include a weak urine stream, frequent urination in small amounts, and the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
5. Treatment options vary based on the underlying cause and may include medications, catheterization, or surgical interventions.

Review Questions

• How do cholinergic drugs impact urinary retention compared to anticholinergic drugs?
  • Cholinergic drugs promote bladder contraction, which helps alleviate urinary retention by enhancing the ability to urinate. In contrast, anticholinergic drugs block the action of acetylcholine, leading to relaxation of bladder muscles and potentially worsening urinary retention. Understanding this difference is essential for choosing appropriate medications in patients who may be at risk for this condition.
• Discuss the role of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in the development of urinary retention in older males.
  • BPH commonly leads to urinary retention in older males due to the enlarged prostate obstructing urine flow through the urethra. As the prostate enlarges, it can compress the urethra, resulting in difficulty initiating urination and a weak stream. This blockage contributes to discomfort and may require treatments ranging from medication to surgical options to relieve symptoms and restore normal urination.
• Evaluate the consequences of untreated urinary retention on overall health and quality of life.
  • Untreated urinary retention can lead to serious health issues, including recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder damage, and renal failure due to increased pressure on the bladder. This condition significantly impacts quality of life, causing chronic discomfort and anxiety about urination. Long-term consequences may result in irreversible changes to the urinary system, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention.

Related terms

Cholinergic Drugs: Medications that mimic the action of acetylcholine, promoting bladder contraction and facilitating urination.

Anticholinergic Drugs: Medications that block acetylcholine's action, potentially leading to urinary retention by relaxing bladder muscles.

BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia): A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can obstruct urine flow and contribute to urinary retention.