Bladder distention occurs when the bladder, a muscular sac that stores urine, stretches and enlarges abnormally due to an excessive accumulation of urine. This happens when the bladder cannot empty properly, causing retained urine to build up and expand beyond its typical capacity.
Causes of Bladder Distention
Several factors can lead to bladder distention, often stemming from an inability to fully empty the bladder, a condition known as urinary retention. One common cause is an obstruction in the urinary tract, which physically blocks urine flow. Examples include an enlarged prostate in men, kidney stones, or tumors.
Nerve damage can also impair bladder function, resulting in a neurogenic bladder. Conditions like stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or diabetes can disrupt signals between the brain and bladder, preventing the bladder from contracting effectively. Certain medications, such as anticholinergics and opioids, can relax bladder muscles or interfere with nerve signals. Additionally, swelling or scarring from recent pelvic or spinal surgery can temporarily block the urethra.
Recognizing Bladder Distention
Recognizing bladder distention involves observing a range of symptoms. A person may feel a constant sensation of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen, sometimes accompanied by pain or discomfort in the pelvic area. This pain can vary in intensity and may worsen as the bladder becomes more distended.
Individuals might experience difficulty initiating urination, a weak or interrupted urine stream, or a feeling of incomplete emptying. Despite frequent urges to urinate, only small amounts of urine may be released. In more severe instances, the bladder’s capacity can be so overwhelmed that it leads to involuntary urine leakage, known as overflow incontinence. A noticeable swelling or a palpable mass might also be present in the lower abdomen, just above the pubic bone.
Addressing Bladder Distention
Addressing bladder distention begins with diagnostic methods to identify its underlying cause. A physical examination may reveal a distended bladder, and a bladder scan, a non-invasive ultrasound, can accurately measure the volume of urine retained. Urinalysis can help detect infections or other urinary abnormalities.
The initial intervention often involves catheterization, where a thin tube is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to drain accumulated urine, providing immediate relief. Once the bladder is decompressed, treatment focuses on resolving the root cause. This may involve medications to reduce prostate enlargement, surgical removal of obstructions like stones or tumors, or managing neurological conditions that affect bladder control. Prompt medical attention is needed to prevent complications such as bladder dysfunction, kidney damage, or chronic urinary tract infections.