What is acute urinary retention and how is it treated?

Acute urinary retention is sudden inability to urinate despite a full bladder — a painful emergency requiring immediate intervention.

Symptoms:

• Severe lower abdominal pain — worsens over time.
• Feeling of full bladder — but no urine comes out.
• Lower abdominal swelling — bladder enlarged and palpable.
• Sweating, anxiety, and severe discomfort.

Common Causes:

• Enlarged prostate: Most common cause in men over 60.
• Severe constipation: Stool presses on bladder and urethra.
• Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, some painkillers.
• After surgery: Temporary anesthesia effect on bladder.
• Urethral stricture: Due to previous infection or injury.

Treatment:

1. Immediate urinary catheterization: Drain the bladder — instant relief.
2. Gradual drainage: If bladder contains over 1 liter — drain 500ml then wait — to prevent blood pressure drop.
3. Treat the cause: Prostate medication or stopping the causative drug.

At BEIT TARIQ Center, we treat urinary retention immediately — in clinic or emergency home visit.