Topic: kidney and urologic diseases (ku)
Title: Urinary Retention.
Author: n/a
Source: Bethesda, MD: National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. 2007. 8 p.
Availability: Available from National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. 3 Information Way, Bethesda, MD 20892. Phone: 1-800-891-5390. Email: nkudic@info.niddk.nih.gov. Website: www.kidney.niddk.nih.gov. Price: Available for free on website.
Abstract: This fact sheet describes urinary retention, which is defined as the inability to empty the bladder. With acute urinary retention, one cannot urinate at all, even with a full bladder. Acute urinary retention is a medical emergency that requires prompt action. Chronic urinary retention may not seem life-threatening, but it can lead to serious problems and should receive attention from a health professional. Written in a question-and-answer format, the fact sheet reviews the physiology of the urinary tract; considers the causes of urinary retention, which include nerve disease, spinal cord injury, prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), infection, surgery, medications, bladder stones, cystocele or rectocele, constipation, and urethral stricture; notes the symptoms of urinary retention; diagnostic approaches used to confirm urinary retention, including the patient history and physical examination, urine sample, bladder scan, cystoscopy, radiography and computer tomography (CT) scan, PSA blood test, prostate fluid sample, and urodynamic tests; reviews treatments, including catheterization, treatments to relieve prostate enlargement, and surgery; and notes the complications of urinary retention and its treatments, including urinary tract infections, bladder damage, chronic kidney disease, and incontinence and erectile function after prostate surgery. A final section briefly reviews current research programs in this area. The fact sheet includes the contact details for two resource organizations through which readers can get more information and a description of the goals and activities of the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. 1 figure.

Format: Factsheet
Language: English.
Major Keywords: Urologic Diseases. Urinary Retention. Bladder. Urination Disorders. Symptoms. Etiology. Patient Care Management. Diagnosis. Complications.
Minor Keywords: Diagnostic Tests. Risk Factors. Catheterization. Physiology. Chronic Kidney Failure. Vesicoureteral Reflux. Urinary Tract Infections. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.
Publication Number: KUDC11203
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