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Urinary Stasis - An Overview

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Urinary stasis is when the normal urine flow from the bladder is impeded, causing the urine to accumulate or back up. Let us know more about it.

Written by

Dr. Aaliya

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Madhav Tiwari

Published At June 20, 2023
Reviewed AtJuly 6, 2023

Introduction:

Urinary stasis is a medical term that describes the retention of urine in the bladder for a prolonged duration. The reasons for this condition can be diverse, such as blockage in the bladder outlet, nerve-related ailments, or medications. The repercussions of urinary stasis can be severe, including infections in the urinary tract, stones in the bladder, and uncontrolled urination.

What Is Urinary Stasis?

Urinary stasis is a medical term used to describe a situation where the bladder cannot entirely or effectively empty urine during urination. This can lead to the build-up of urine inside the bladder, which increases the risk of developing urinary tract infections and other urinary issues.

What Are the Causes of Urinary Stasis?

Urinary stasis is when urine accumulates and stays in the bladder for too long.

It can be caused by different factors, including:

  • Obstruction: Anything that blocks the normal urine flow from the bladder to the urethra.

  • Neurogenic Bladder: Damage to the nerves controlling the bladder, leading to abnormal bladder function.

  • Weak Bladder Muscles: The bladder is a muscle that contracts to expel urine, but it can be weak or damaged, leading to urinary stasis.

  • Medications: Certain drugs that relax bladder muscles, such as antihistamines, anticholinergics, and opioids.

  • Pregnancy: As the uterus expands, it can pressurize the bladder and cause urinary stasis.

  • Infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause bladder inflammation and swelling, leading to urinary stasis.

  • Dehydration: When the body lacks fluids, urine becomes concentrated and can irritate the bladder, leading to urinary stasis.

Urinary stasis can negatively impact urinary health and cause potential complications like UTIs, bladder stones, and kidney damage.

What Are the Symptoms of Urinary Stasis?

The indications of urinary stasis may differ based on the seriousness and root cause of the condition; however, some general symptoms are typically observed, such as those listed below:

  • Difficulty starting urination.

  • Weak urine stream.

  • Pain or discomfort during urination.

  • Frequent urination.

  • Urgency to urinate.

  • Incomplete emptying of the bladder.

  • Urinary incontinence.

  • Discomfort or a sensation of pressure in the pelvic region or lower abdomen.

  • Blood in the urine.

  • Fever, chills, or other signs of infection in severe cases.

See a doctor if one experiences any of these symptoms, as urinary stasis can lead to serious complications such as urinary tract infections, kidney damage, or bladder stones.

How to Diagnose Urinary Stasis?

Urinary stasis is when the bladder or urinary tract retains urine due to an inability to empty it fully. The following factors can assist in the diagnosis of urinary stasis:

  • Medical History: A comprehensive medical history is obtained to determine the patient's symptoms and any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to urinary stasis.

  • Physical Examination: A physical exam checks for signs of bladder distension, including abdominal pain, palpable bladder, or a distended lower abdomen.

  • Urinalysis: A urinalysis is conducted to check for indications of infection, blood, or protein in the urine, which could suggest a urinary tract issue.

  • Ultrasound: An ultrasound of the bladder and kidneys can detect the amount of urine present in the bladder as well as any blockages or irregularities in the urinary system.

  • Urodynamic Testing: Urodynamic testing evaluates the bladder and urethra's ability to store and empty urine, measuring bladder pressure, capacity, and the ability to contract and release urine.

  • Cystoscopy: A cystoscopy procedure involves placing a thin tube with a camera through the urethra to examine the interior of the bladder and urethra for any obstructions or abnormalities.

  • Imaging Tests: CT scans or MRIs may detect any structural abnormalities or obstructions in the urinary tract.

A blend of medical history, physical examination, urinalysis, imaging tests, and urodynamic testing can be employed to diagnose urinary stasis.

How to Treat Urinary Stasis?

The management of urinary stasis depends on the root cause of the issue. There are several typical therapies available, which may involve:

  • Catheterization is the most common treatment for urinary stasis. A catheter is a thin, flexible tube inserted through the urethra to the bladder.

  • The doctor may prescribe medications that aid in relaxing the bladder muscles and facilitating the process of bladder emptying.

  • Surgery may be necessary in severe cases to remove any blockages in the urinary tract or repair damaged muscles or nerves preventing the bladder from emptying properly.

  • It may be necessary to make adjustments to one's lifestyle, such as restricting fluid intake, refraining from consuming alcohol and caffeine, and engaging in pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the muscles responsible for controlling urination.

  • The process of bladder training entails gradually lengthening the time intervals between visits to the restroom, which can aid in the reeducation of the bladder muscles.

  • The biofeedback technique involves using sensors to monitor the activity of the bladder muscles and providing feedback to help you learn how to control them.

  • According to some studies, acupuncture may help treat urinary retention by improving bladder function.

Consulting a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the treatment plan that best suits patients' needs.

How to Prevent Urinary Stasis?

Prevention of urinary stasis includes:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water and fluids to flush out the urinary system and prevent stasis.

  • Practice Good Hygiene: Proper hygiene, particularly wiping from front to back after using the bathroom, to avoid bacteria from entering the urinary tract.

  • Empty the Bladder Regularly: Avoid holding urine for too long, and try to urinate regularly to prevent stasis.

  • Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced and healthy diet helps keep the body functioning correctly, including the urinary system.

  • Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise can improve urinary function and prevent stasis.

  • Manage Medical Conditions: Proper management of medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney stones, can prevent stasis.

  • Avoid Irritants: Avoiding or limiting substances like alcohol and caffeine that irritate the urinary system and lead to stasis.

  • Seek Medical Attention: If one experiences symptoms of a UTI or other urinary problem, seek medical attention immediately to prevent complications such as stasis.

Conclusion:

Urinary stasis is the obstruction of proper urine flow through the urinary system, resulting from multiple factors, including nerve damage, kidney stones, and prostate enlargement. Failure to address this condition can lead to severe outcomes such as bladder stones, urinary tract infections, and kidney damage. Timely identification and treatment of urinary stasis are crucial to prevent complications and maintain proper urinary health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.

What Is the Sensation of Urinary Stasis?

The symptoms encompass severe discomfort in the lower abdomen. However, individuals with persistent urine retention may experience less pain. Additionally, a sensation of fullness in the lower abdomen may be present. Experiencing urinary retention, characterized by the inability to avoid pee.

2.

Is There a Causal Relationship Between Urinary Stasis and Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)?

Urinary stasis poses a significant risk for the recurrence of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). Urinary stasis has the potential to function as a reservoir for bacterial colonization. The occurrence of acute pyelonephritis in certain women can be attributed to urinary stasis and the existence of vesicoureteral reflux. The prevalence of calyceal and ureteral dilatation is higher on the right side, with approximately 80% of cases exhibiting localized dilatation on the right side.

3.

Is there a correlation between urinary stasis and the formation of kidney stones?

Kidney stone formation in pregnant women can be influenced by urinary stasis, heightened glomerular filtration rate, and higher urine pH. The prevalence of calcium phosphate stones in pregnant women is reported to be as high as 75%, which differs from the general adult population, where calcium oxalate stones are more frequently observed.

4.

What Are the Most Efficient Methods for Dissolving a Kidney Stone at an Accelerated Rate?

Maintaining proper hydration levels has been shown to expedite the passage of kidney stones. Several substances, such as apple cider vinegar and lemon juice, have been suggested to possess potential properties that could aid kidney stones' dissolution, facilitating their passage through the urinary tract. Consuming adequate fluids has been shown to facilitate the passage of kidney stones and mitigate the risk of stone recurrence.

5.

How to Avoid Urinary Stasis?

Treatments for urine retention vary.  Common methods include bladder surgery, catheterization, urethral dilatation or stents, and medications.
1. Drain bladder
Caths minimize bladder fullness and prevent damage. Patients may need to learn to put a catheter for bladder drainage.  Depending on retention, a catheter may be needed temporarily or permanently. Avoid infection by following catheter insertion instructions. Tracking fluid consumption and urine output is possible.
2. Stents/urethral dilation
The urethra that empties pee can be obstructed. A small catheter or tube dilates the urethra. Small catheters or tubes are left in place as stents. Dilation can be done alone or with stents. Usually done as an outpatient or office visit under local anesthetic. A temporary or permanent stent drains the bladder.
3. Medications
The medication relaxes bladder muscles. The prostate muscles can be relaxed with medications to reduce urine retention.
4. Surgery
Surgery to remove bladder tumors may reduce urethra obstruction and urine retention. Ureterostomies open urethral strictures via incisions or lasers.
Some women develop prolapse when the bladder and vaginal tissue weaken and stretch. Prolapses can cause cystocele (between a woman's bladder and vaginal wall) or rectocele. The surgery may remove excess tissue causing urinary blockage in men with BPH.

6.

What are the clinical manifestations associated with urine retention?

The manifestations of urinary retention encompass a spectrum of presentations, ranging from intense stomach pain and the inability to avoid urine to a paucity or absence of symptoms. Urinary retention can arise due to an obstruction that hinders the complete or partial passage of urine or due to insufficient contractile strength of the bladder, resulting in an inability to discharge all pee.

7.

Is It Possible to Achieve a Natural Remedy for Urinary Retention?

Managing urinary retention within a domestic setting is contingent upon the underlying cause and the extent of the problem. In mild cases, it is advisable to consider employing these domestic remedies: Engaging in Kegel Exercises to enhance bladder control. Maintaining proper hydration levels is crucial for promoting optimal urine function.

8.

What Measures Can Be Taken to Mitigate Urinary Stasis?

- Alter your restroom practices.
- Maintain a heightened awareness of your physical state. 
- Adhere to the prescribed medication regimen.
- Engage in pelvic floor muscle exercises. 
- Implement dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

9.

Is Urine Retention a Reversible Condition?

The appropriate management of urine retention is contingent upon the classification of the condition as either acute or chronic, as well as the underlying etiology responsible for urinary retention. Various therapy options are available for the management of urine retention, encompassing bladder drainage, pharmaceutical interventions, medical procedures or devices, surgical interventions, and self-care measures.
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Dr. Madhav Tiwari
Dr. Madhav Tiwari

General Surgery

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