Bladder retention is the result of the bladder not being able to empty, which causes urine to accumulate. Because the bladder is muscular, it can withstand a large amount of pressure, making it resistant to rupture. However, bladder retention can be painful and generally requires immediate treatment.
Catheterization
Catheterization is one of the main ways in which bladder retention is treated, according to the Urology Channel. The catheter, which is a thin tube, is inserted into the bladder through the abdomen, which allows the bladder to be drained. This can relieve pain and swelling around the bladder. Catheterization is generally a short-term solution, however, because the catheter is generally only used in health-care settings.
Medications
There are four main kinds of medications that can be used to treat bladder retention, according to the Physicians Desk Reference. 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors are medications that reduce the activity of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme converts testosterone into a more potent form, which can cause enlargement of the prostate gland and block the urethra. Similarly, anti-androgens are medications that can inhibit the production of testosterone. Alpha-blockers, drugs that relax the muscles in the bladder and prostate, can also be used to make urination easier. Finally, antibiotics can be used if a prostate infection is the cause of the bladder retention.
Surgery
Surgery can also be used to treat bladder retention. If something is blocking the urinary tract, the blockage can be surgically removed to allow the bladder to drain. Sometimes, stents can be put into a narrowed portion of the urinary tract to help expand it, according to the Physicians Desk Reference. If an enlarged or swollen prostate is the cause of the bladder retention, the prostate may need to be removed.
Pelvic Floor Therapy
Women with bladder retention may also receive a type of treatment known as pelvic floor therapy, according to Aguirre Specialty Care. Pelvic floor therapy requires multiple visits to a therapist who will use a combination of therapies, including electrical stimulation and massage of the muscles and nerves in the pelvis, to help strengthen and relax the muscles in the pelvis, which can make urination easier.
Interstim Therapy
Interstim therapy is another kind of treatment which can be used for bladder retention. Insterstim is a device that, according to Aguirre Specialty Care, is implanted in the skin just above the buttocks. This device sends out electrical signals that stimulate the sacral nerves, which are important for bladder function. This device helps restore normal bladder function, which can ease bladder retention.
