Urinary retention

Common card · No. 217371

Urinary retention is an inability to completely empty the bladder. Onset can be sudden or gradual. When it is of sudden onset, symptoms include an inability to urinate and lower abdominal pain, while symptoms accompanying gradual onset may include loss of bladder control, mild lower abdominal pain, and a weak urine stream. About 7 per 100,000 of the general population are affected annually, and those with long-term urinary retention are at risk of urinary tract infections. Causes include blockage of the urethra, nerve problems, certain medications, and weak bladder muscles. Blockage can be caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urethral strictures, bladder stones, a cystocele, constipation, or tumors. Nerve problems can occur from diabetes, trauma, spinal cord problems, stroke, or heavy metal poisoning. Medications that can cause problems include anticholinergics, antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, cyclobenzaprine, diazepam, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), stimulants...

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