Treating Acute Urinary Retention: What Are Your Options?
Published: Jan 28, 2024
Acute urinary retention (AUR) requires prompt treatment to avoid complications. Let's dive into the treatment options available.
Contents
Initial Treatment Steps
The first step in treating AUR is to relieve bladder pressure through catheterization. This provides immediate relief and allows for further assessment.
Medications for AUR
Medications such as alpha-blockers are often used after initial decompression to manage conditions like BPH that cause AUR. These help relax the muscles around the bladder neck and prostate.

Surgical Options
In some cases, surgery may be needed to address the underlying cause of AUR, such as removing obstructions or repairing anatomical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bladder decompression through catheterization.
Yes, alpha-blockers are commonly used.
Yes, in cases with underlying obstructions.
Key Takeaways
Effective treatment of AUR involves both immediate relief and addressing the root cause.
Learn more about treatment options for AUR by consulting Doctronic!Related Articles
References
Kaplan SA, Wein AJ, Staskin DR, et al. Urinary retention and post-void residual urine in men: separating truth from tradition. J Urol 2008; 180:47.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.