Urinary Retention Treatment in Birmingham
Urinary retention is the inability to pass urine normally, resulting in an overfull bladder. It can be acute (sudden and painful) or chronic (gradual and often painless). Mr Syed Ali Shahzad, Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon, assesses and treats urinary retention at private hospitals across Birmingham.
Acute Urinary Retention
Acute urinary retention (AUR) is a medical emergency characterised by a sudden inability to urinate despite a full bladder, usually causing severe lower abdominal pain. It requires immediate catheterisation to drain the bladder, followed by investigation and treatment of the underlying cause. Common causes in men include BPH, urethral stricture and prostate cancer.
Chronic Urinary Retention
Chronic urinary retention develops gradually, with the bladder never completely emptying. It may be painless. Patients may notice a palpable bladder, frequent voiding of small volumes, or symptoms of overflow incontinence. Chronic retention can cause hydronephrosis and progressive kidney damage if untreated.
Causes
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Urethral stricture
- Prostate or bladder cancer
- Neurological disease (spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease)
- Medications (anticholinergics, antihistamines)
- Constipation
Treatment
Initial management is bladder drainage via urethral or suprapubic catheter. Definitive treatment addresses the underlying cause. This may involve alpha-blockers or surgery for BPH, treatment of urethral stricture, or long-term clean intermittent self-catheterisation for neurogenic causes.
Book a Consultation
Mr Shahzad offers rapid assessment for urinary retention. No GP referral is required. Recognised by BUPA, AXA, AVIVA, Vitality, Cigna and WPA. Book an appointment or contact us.