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Urinary retention

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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This occurs when there is absolute or incomplete emptying of the bladder of urine.

Classification:

  • acute urinary retention - an acute cessation of urinary flow which may occur in otherwise normal individuals, especially males, postoperatively.

  • chronic urinary retention - asymptomatic, the result of chronic incomplete bladder emptying; noted as an enlarged bladder on abdominal examination.

Patients with chronic urinary retention may develop acute-on-chronic retention. This may be precipitated by factors such as urinary tract infection or constipation. It causes absolute cessation of urinary flow.

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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