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Certain conditions block the flow of urine. This blockage may be partial or complete. In either case, it can be a serious condition. Obstruction usually occurs in the urethra (the tube between the bladder and the outside). It may also occur in the bladder or the ureters (the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder).
THERE ARE SEVERAL CONDITIONS THAT CAN BLOCK THE FLOW OF URINE. THESE INCLUDE: - urinary infection
- kidney or bladder stones
- damage to the urethra in women during sexual intercourse
- a swollen prostate gland in men
- sagging pelvic organs in women
- abnormal structure of the urethra
- nerve problems in the bladder
- kidney failure or
- a tumour
Women often have transient difficulty urinating during childbirth. This is more likely if they receive an epidural painkiller. SYMPTOMS OF OBSTRUCTION TO THE URETHRA INCLUDE: - inability to pass urine
- reduced urine flow
- intermittent flow
- pain while passing urine
- dripping or dribbling at the start or end of urination or
- hesitancy in starting the urine stream
If the blockage is located in the lower urinary tract, a doctor can relieve the pressure with a catheter. A catheter is a flexible slender tube. Once the catheter is in the urethra, urine usually flows out freely. While the catheter is in place, the patient will not be able to control his urination. If the ureter is obstructed, emergency surgery may be necessary. The ureter can be obstructed because of a tumour or other abnormality in the bladder or a stone or mass in the ureter. THE DOCTOR MUST TREAT THE BASIC CAUSE, WHICH MAY INCLUDE: - infection or an enlarged prostate
- kidney and bladder stones or
- tumour in the bladder
Urinary obstruction could be a medical emergency. If you are having difficulty passing your urine, consult your doctor right away. If you have bladder urgency but cannot pass any urine, seek immediate medical care. Article #5269 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
