Condition
Urinary retention
Being unable to pass urine, or emptying poorly, is distressing. Urgent relief with a catheter is only the first step — the goal is to understand the cause and restore normal voiding wherever possible.
Overview
What is this condition?
Urinary retention is the inability to empty the bladder fully. Acute retention is sudden and often painful; chronic retention builds up over time and may be painless.
Both types require specialist assessment because untreated retention can damage the bladder and kidneys.
Common symptoms
Symptoms to be aware of
Symptoms vary from person to person. Specialist assessment helps determine the underlying cause.
Inability to pass urine
Severe lower abdominal pain
Typical of acute retention.
Weak or dribbling stream
Feeling of incomplete emptying
Recurrent urinary infections
Overflow leakage
Possible causes
What can cause it
Prostate enlargement
The most common cause in men.
Urinary infection
Especially with prostatitis.
Medications
Anticholinergics, opioids and cold remedies can precipitate retention.
Urethral stricture
A narrowing of the urethra restricting flow.
Neurological causes
Spinal cord problems, MS, diabetes-related nerve changes.
Many causes are benign and highly treatable. A structured consultant-led assessment is the fastest way to reach a clear diagnosis and a personalised plan.
When to seek medical advice
Acute urinary retention is a medical emergency. If you cannot pass urine at all, please attend A&E immediately for bladder drainage.
- Sudden inability to pass urine — attend A&E
- Back pain with retention (possible spinal cord problem)
- Retention with kidney impairment
- Fever with retention
- New neurological symptoms
Diagnosis
How the diagnosis is made
Diagnosis follows a clear, patient-centred pathway — often completed within one or two visits.
- 01
Medical history
Duration, previous urinary symptoms and medications.
- 02
Examination
Abdominal, prostate and neurological examination.
- 03
Bladder scan
Measures the volume of urine remaining after voiding.
- 04
Blood and urine tests
Kidney function and infection screen.
- 05
Imaging
Ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder.
- 06
Flow studies or cystoscopy
In selected patients before definitive treatment.
Treatment options
Treatments tailored to you
Treatment is personalised through shared decision-making. Both conservative and procedural options are considered where appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions, answered
Why patients choose Mr Teleb
Consultant-led urology care you can trust.
Consultant-led care
Every consultation, investigation and follow-up is with Mr Teleb personally.
NHS Consultant
Substantive Consultant Urologist at University Hospital of Wales.
Evidence-based treatment
Modern, guideline-based care delivered to a high standard.
Rapid access
Most new patients are seen within a few days.
Personalised management
Treatment plans tailored to your anatomy, health and priorities.
Clear communication
Unhurried explanations, written summaries and shared decision-making.
Related conditions
Related procedures
Patient information
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FRCS (Urol)
Fellowship-trained consultant
5.0 patient rating
Verified private reviews
Seen within days
Same-week appointments
All major insurers
BUPA · AXA · Aviva · Vitality · WPA