WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is acute urinary retention? Acute urinary retention (AUR) is when your bladder is full, but you cannot urinate. This condition happens suddenly, gets worse quickly, and lasts a short time. What causes AUR? - Weak bladder muscle
- Blockages, such as a stone or growth
- Nerve damage from diabetes, stroke, or spinal cord injuries
- Swelling or infection, including childbirth, pelvic surgery, or a urinary tract infection
- Certain medicines, such as narcotics, anesthesia, and antidepressants
What are the signs and symptoms of AUR? - Discomfort or pain in your lower abdomen
- A bloated lower abdomen
- Urge to urinate after you just went
- A urine stream that stops and starts on its own
How is AUR diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will ask about your health history and the medicines you take. He will press or tap on your lower abdomen. You may need any of the following tests: - A pelvic exam will be done to check for blockages. A pelvic exam will also show if your bladder, uterus, or other organs have moved out of place.
- A post void residual test will show how much urine is left in your bladder after you urinate. You will be asked to urinate and then healthcare providers will use a small ultrasound machine to check the remaining urine in your bladder.
- A neuro exam may be done to test your strength, balance, and movement. A neuro exam looks for changes in your brain and nervous system.
- Urine tests may be needed to check for blood or infection.
- Blood tests may be needed to check for infection and kidney function.
How is AUR treated? - A Foley catheter is a tube put into your bladder to drain urine into a bag. Keep the bag below your waist. This will prevent urine from flowing back into your bladder and causing an infection or other problems. Also, keep the tube free of kinks so the urine will drain properly. Do not pull on the catheter. This can cause pain and bleeding, and may cause the catheter to come out.
- Antibiotics help treat or prevent a bacterial infection.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have a fever.
- You have pain when you urinate.
- You see blood in your urine.
- You have problems with your catheter.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
When should I seek immediate care or call 911? - You have severe abdominal pain.
- You are breathing faster than usual.
- Your heartbeat is faster than usual.
- Your face, hands, feet, or ankles are swollen.
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