Published on: 5/21/2025
What Can Cause Urinary Retention?
Urinary retention can be caused by blockages, nerve problems, or certain medications. It can happen suddenly or over time.
Explanation
Urinary retention is when the bladder can't empty all the way. This can happen for different reasons.
Causes:
- Blockages: Things like an enlarged prostate in men, kidney stones, or tumors can block the flow of urine.
- Nerve Problems: Sometimes, the nerves that help the bladder work don't send the right signals. This can happen with conditions like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or after a stroke.
- Medications: Some medicines can make it hard to pee. These might include certain allergy, cold medicines, or antidepressants.
Types:
- Acute Retention: This happens suddenly and can be very painful.
- Chronic Retention: This happens slowly over time and might not hurt, but the bladder doesn't empty fully.
If you're having trouble urinating, it's important to talk to a healthcare provider. They can help figure out what's causing the problem and how to treat it.
(References)
- Serlin DC, Heidelbaugh JJ, & Stoffel JT. (2018). Urinary Retention in Adults: Evaluation and Initial .... American family physician, 30277739.
- Selius BA, & Subedi R. (2008). Urinary retention in adults: diagnosis and initial management. American family physician, 18350762.
- Hernández Hernández D, Tesouro RB, & Castro-Diaz D. (2013). Urinary retention. Urologia, 24419919.
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