The urinary tract is your body's system that filters waste and excess fluids. This system includes the:
- Kidneys
- Ureters
- Bladder
- Urethra
These parts work together to ensure a balance. They help create and remove urine from the body. When everything is working well, voiding should be easy and comfortable. But what if you start having trouble urinating?
What Does It Mean to Have Difficulty Urinating?
Difficulty urinating is when there are urinary symptoms that can make it hard to start, maintain, or fully empty the bladder. These include:
- Difficulty initiating urination, often requiring extra effort or time before urine begins to flow
- A stinging or uncomfortable sensation before, during, or after urination
- A reduced, slow, or weak stream of urine, which may take longer than usual to empty the bladder
- Urine flow that pauses unexpectedly, often followed by dribbling or leakage, making it hard to fully finish
- A lingering sensation that some urine remains in the bladder after voiding. This can sometimes lead to repeated trips to the bathroom
Causes of Difficulty Urinating
Trouble with urination can affect anyone, but it's particularly common in men over 50 due to prostate issues.
BPH
The prostate is a small gland positioned around the urethra. As men age, they often experience benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), an enlargement of the prostate gland. As the prostate grows bigger, it can press on the urethra, making it harder to urinate.
BPH symptoms include:
- Slow urine flow
- Difficulty starting urination
- Dribbling
- Frequent urination, especially at night
UTIs
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more common in women but can affect anyone. Symptoms include:
- Pain or burning during urination
- The urge to urinate frequently but only passing small amounts
- Lower abdominal discomfort
Bladder Stones
People who can't fully empty their bladders are more likely to develop bladder stones. These are hard mineral deposits that can block urine flow. Bladder stone symptoms include:
- Pain
- Difficulty starting urination
- Cloudy or dark-colored urine
Neurogenic Bladder
If you have diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or a spinal cord injury, you may have trouble voiding. Nerve damage from these conditions can affect bladder control. This condition is known as neurogenic bladder. Symptoms include:
- The inability to control the bladder
- Weak or interrupted flow
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
Medications
Certain medicines, both prescribed and over the counter, can affect bladder function. Antihistamines, antidepressants, and drugs for high blood pressure can lead to urinary hesitancy or retention.
Obstructions
Urinary tract obstructions can occur in anyone. But, they are more common in older adults. They can be caused by urethral strictures, stones, or tumors. Symptoms include:
- Decreased urine flow
- Straining to urinate
- Bladder discomfort
When Should I See a Urologist?
Urinary difficulties and their symptoms can range from mild to severe. While they may be temporary, it's important to address them if they persist or worsen. Seek medical care if you:
- Notice blood in your urine or are experiencing significant pain while urinating
- Are unable to urinate, known as urinary retention
- Have symptoms that don't improve within a few days or are getting worse
- Experience a fever along with urinary symptoms
Your doctor may use several methods to diagnose the underlying cause, including:
- Asking about symptoms, medications, and any relevant health conditions
- Urine tests to detect infections or blood
- An ultrasound or CT scan to check for stones, tumors, or an enlarged prostate
- Uroflowmetry to measure the flow and volume of urine and evaluate how well your bladder and urethra are functioning
Treating Difficulty Urinating
Each of the following conditions comes with its own set of treatments to address the root cause and relieve symptoms:
Benign prostatic hyperplasia
Medications like alpha-blockers help relax the muscles in the bladder and prostate, making it easier to urinate. A minimally invasive procedure or surgery may be needed in some cases to improve symptoms.
Urinary tract infections
Antibiotics are typically used to clear up the infection. Drinking plenty of water can also help flush bacteria out of the urinary tract.
Bladder stones
Drinking plenty of fluids can help pass small bladder stones naturally. Larger stones may require shockwave lithotripsy or even surgery.
Neurogenic bladder
Medications and pelvic floor exercises can help improve bladder control in people with neurogenic bladder. In some cases, though, using a catheter to drain the bladder regularly may be necessary.
Urethral strictures or obstructions
Surgery or dilation can help by widening the narrowed area or removing the blockage. In some cases, medications may also be prescribed to reduce any related inflammation or infection.
Whether it's a medication, infection, or physical obstruction, treating the underlying cause of urinary difficulties can bring relief. If you are struggling, schedule an appointment with one of our specialists to discuss your options for finding relief.
FAQs
1. Is there anything I can do to reduce nighttime trips to the bathroom?
Yes, cutting back on fluids a few hours before bed, avoiding caffeine and alcohol in the evening, and emptying your bladder twice before sleep can help.
2. Does my diet influence my urinary health?
Absolutely. What you eat and drink can impact your bladder and urinary function. Staying hydrated, avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol, and reducing spicy or acidic foods may help reduce irritation.
3. Are there any warning signs that difficulty urinating could be serious?
Yes, certain signs suggest that your symptoms could be part of a more serious condition, including:
- Blood in the urine
- Sudden inability to urinate
- Severe pain in the lower abdomen or back
- Fever with urinary issues
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help promptly.
Urology Center Of Iowa
Clinic Locations
Phone
515-400-3550
Fax
515-400-3551
Address
12129 University Ave, Clive, IA 50325
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