urine retention


urine retention

The inability to urinate voluntarily or to empty a full bladder. Urine retention affects predominantly males because of the frequency with which enlargement of the PROSTATE GLAND causes obstruction to the outflow of urine. The condition can also be caused by disorder of the neurological control of the bladder function. There is constant discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen and a swelling above the pubis. Emergency treatment involves passage of a CATHETER or drainage of the bladder by way of a CANNULA passed through the wall of the abdomen. The cause of the obstruction must then be removed.