Treatment of chronic urinary retention by urologist Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko in Dnipro.

Patients present with complaints of difficulty urinating, a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, delayed urine flow, or occasional nighttime urges.

The physician conducts a detailed collection of complaints and medical history, performs a clinical evaluation, and orders the necessary tests to identify the underlying causes of the condition.

The patient receives a clear step-by-step plan of action: recommendations for further investigations, criteria for assessing treatment effectiveness, and monitoring of the condition’s progress.

The physician pays special attention to the differential diagnosis of causes and dynamic observation, which helps to adjust treatment and consider possible concomitant factors.

When to See a Doctor

Chronic urinary retention can manifest in different ways, so it is important to pay timely attention to alarming symptoms or changes in your condition. You should make an appointment with a urologist if, with chronic urinary retention, you notice:

• A constant feeling of a full bladder
• Difficulty urinating or a weak urine stream
• Frequent urges to urinate, especially at night
• A sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
• Painful or uncomfortable sensations during urination
• Recurrent episodes of urinary retention or involuntary leakage
• Worsening symptoms over time
• Symptoms interfering with work, sleep, or daily activities
• No improvement after attempts to manage the condition on your own
• First-time symptoms that cause concern
• Exacerbation of chronic urinary problems
• The need to clarify possible causes in the presence of other illnesses

If you notice several of these signs or cannot manage the situation yourself, it is recommended to see a specialist. A doctor can help assess your condition, choose an appropriate approach, and order examinations if necessary.

Addressing the problem early allows for better control of the situation and helps prevent complications.

Emergency Conditions or When You Need to See a Doctor Immediately

• Sudden complete inability to urinate accompanied by severe discomfort
• Sharp lower abdominal pain that does not subside and increases in intensity
• Combination of high fever with chills and difficulty urinating
• Appearance of blood in the urine or severe darkening of the urine
• Rapid deterioration of overall condition accompanied by urinary problems

If you experience these symptoms, do not wait for a scheduled appointment — timely assessment of your condition is essential. Our clinic offers a home visit service for urgent medical assistance.

Causes and Risk Factors

This section will help you understand what might trigger chronic urinary retention and which circumstances increase the likelihood of its occurrence. Identifying the causes requires evaluation by a physician and additional examinations.

Main Causes / Mechanisms (Briefly)

• Often associated with prostate dysfunction in men
• May be related to strictures (narrowing) of the urethra
• Sometimes caused by problems with the nervous regulation of the bladder
• Can develop against the background of stones in the urinary tract
• Occasionally related to the consequences of surgical interventions or injuries

Risk Factors

• Age-related changes, especially after 50 years old
• Chronic inflammatory processes of the genitourinary system
• Presence of prostate diseases, including adenoma
• Injuries or surgeries of the pelvic organs
• Diabetes mellitus and other metabolic disorders
• History of prolonged urinary retention
• Use of certain medications affecting urination
• Smoking and a sedentary lifestyle

Reversible Causes to Rule Out

• Temporary effects of some medications or muscle relaxants
• Acute urinary tract infection
• Stress or psychological factors affecting urination regulation

Understanding the probable causes and risk factors of chronic urinary retention helps to seek timely consultation with a specialist for accurate diagnosis and the selection of appropriate management or treatment strategies.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of chronic urinary retention aims to identify possible causes and develop a plan for further management. The physician systematically collects information and orders examinations to gain the most accurate understanding of the patient's condition.

Diagnostic Approach

• Detailed medical history taking with analysis of complaints and medical background
• Physical examination and assessment of the overall condition of the genitourinary system
• Ordering basic laboratory tests as indicated
• Conducting additional instrumental studies if necessary
• Evaluating the collected data and formulating a plan for further examination or treatment

Typical Examinations as Indicated

• Ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs
• Urine and blood tests to detect inflammation or disorders
• Uroflowmetry — assessment of the speed and quality of urination
• Cystoscopy — inspection of the inner surface of the urinary bladder
• Additional examinations as individually decided by the physician

What to Bring to the Appointment

• Results of previous examinations and tests
• List of current medications and dosages
• Imaging studies or extracts from the medical record
• Symptom diary describing complaints and their changes

Diagnosing chronic urinary retention requires a comprehensive approach and individualized selection of methods, which helps the physician develop an optimal plan for examination and further management.

Treatment

The treatment of chronic urinary retention is aimed at reducing the severity of symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life. The treatment plan is tailored individually, taking into account the underlying cause and the patient’s specific characteristics.

Treatment Goals

• Reduce manifestations of urinary retention and discomfort
• Improve bladder function and urodynamics
• Slow the progression of the condition and prevent complications
• Provide prevention of possible complications

Main Treatment Approaches

• May include pharmacological therapy to address causes or symptoms, as indicated
• Primary focus on non-pharmacological methods such as physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• If necessary, surgical or minimally invasive urological interventions may be performed
• Therapy is individualized and based on a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s condition

What the Doctor Does

• Selects and adjusts treatment considering comorbidities
• Monitors treatment effectiveness and possible side effects
• Explains to the patient the main criteria for evaluating treatment outcomes
• Coordinates collaboration with other specialists if needed
• Follows up with the patient over time and modifies the treatment if there is no effect

What to Expect: Plan and Monitoring

• Evaluation of the condition and response to treatment is individualized and based on indications
• The treatment plan is adjusted as necessary according to symptom changes
• Follow-up visits help monitor progress and adapt the approach
• The goal is gradual symptom improvement and maintenance of normal function

For detailed information on treatment options, please consult with Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko.

Prevention

Prevention is important for reducing the risk of developing chronic urinary retention and maintaining urinary and reproductive system health. The prevention plan is individually tailored based on the patient’s condition.

Key Primary Prevention Measures

• Control of chronic diseases affecting urination
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and physical activity
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Timely treatment of urinary tract infections as indicated
• Avoiding prolonged urine retention and exposure to cold whenever possible

Screening and Secondary Prevention / Regular Monitoring

• Regular medical examinations and evaluation of bladder function as recommended by a doctor
• Monitoring the condition of the prostate gland when relevant factors are present
• Managing comorbidities affecting the urinary system as indicated
• Repeat assessments and therapy adjustments if symptoms change

Practical Advice

• Discuss with your doctor the possibility of adjusting medications that affect urination
• Try to maintain a regular daily routine with scheduled bathroom visits
• Increase physical activity within recommended limits
• Ensure adequate fluid intake without excessive consumption
• Pay attention to changes in symptoms and consult your doctor promptly

Preventive measures for chronic urinary retention help maintain comfort and reduce the risk of complications.

Important to Know

Chronic urinary retention is a condition that requires a careful approach. It is important not only to relieve the symptoms but also to understand the underlying causes of the problem. Early consultation helps to choose the optimal strategy and reduce the risk of complications. Often, ongoing monitoring is necessary to adjust treatment as the condition changes. Factors such as workload, stress, sleep quality, and comorbidities influence the course of the condition. Self-medication can mask symptoms, lead to side effects, and delay accurate diagnosis.

• The main task is to identify the causes, not just relieve symptoms
• Early evaluation reduces the risk of progression and complications
• Ongoing monitoring helps to adjust the treatment plan
• Stress, lifestyle, and comorbidities affect the condition
• Self-medication can complicate diagnosis and cause unwanted effects
• Clinic doctors focus on a comprehensive approach and explain the plan clearly

Consulting a specialist for chronic urinary retention is an important step in understanding the situation and developing a safe treatment plan. You can learn more about the features and diagnostic methods on our general page dedicated to urology.

Self-Care Before the Appointment: What You Can and Cannot Do

Before your appointment for chronic urinary retention, it is important to take safe steps to avoid worsening your condition and to help the doctor gather accurate information. If your condition worsens, seek urgent help from Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko.

What You Can Do Before the Appointment

• Note the time and circumstances when symptoms appeared, as well as factors that worsen or relieve them
• Bring a list of all medications you are taking, including dosages if known
• Keep a symptom diary indicating intensity and time of onset
• Measure and record your temperature and general well-being if possible
• Reduce physical exertion and ensure rest before consulting the specialist
• Drink enough water unless there are contraindications or risks of dehydration
• Avoid holding urine for prolonged periods
• Maintain a healthy sleep and eating schedule to support your overall condition

What You Should Not Do Before the Appointment

• Do not stop or change regular medications without consulting your doctor
• Do not start taking new medications or remedies on your own
• Do not use folk remedies without confirmation of safety from a specialist
• Do not try to diagnose yourself or interpret test results independently
• Do not ignore worsening symptoms or deterioration of your condition
• Do not delay seeing a doctor if new alarming signs appear
• Do not apply self-treatment methods that may mask real symptoms
• Avoid physical activities that cause pain or discomfort

If you experience urgent symptoms, immediately contact Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko for timely assistance.

How I Can Help as a Doctor with Chronic Urinary Retention

During a consultation for chronic urinary retention, I can assist you in the following ways:

• Review your symptoms and medical history to identify possible causes
• Assess the severity of symptoms and identify associated risk factors
• Analyze current medications and their tolerability if needed
• Develop a plan for further steps: examinations, treatment, and follow-up
• Consider comorbidities and concomitant medications for a comprehensive approach
• Provide recommendations on lifestyle and daily routines tailored to your individual needs
• Discuss criteria for monitoring progress and timing of follow-up visits
• Perform initial diagnostics to determine causes and rule out probable alternatives
• Adjust treatment strategies if effectiveness is insufficient or side effects occur

Each case requires an individualized approach and thorough analysis. My goal is to help you understand your condition, choose the appropriate management, and ensure regular monitoring for timely treatment adjustments.

What Questions Can You Ask a Doctor About Chronic Urinary Retention

During your consultation regarding chronic urinary retention, you can discuss the following issues with Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko:

• Difficulty starting urination and weak urine flow
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying after going to the bathroom
• Frequent nighttime urges and discomfort during urination
• Worsening symptoms or their recurring appearance
• Lack of effect from previously prescribed treatment or need for a second opinion
• Associated health conditions that may complicate the situation
• Questions about diagnostics and examinations necessary in my case

If you suddenly cannot urinate at all, experience sharp pain in the lower abdomen, or notice blood in your urine, urgent medical help is needed — do not wait for a scheduled appointment.

1. What is happening to me and what could this be?
2. Why might this have started right now?
3. How can I tell if this is related to urinary retention and not another condition?
4. What examinations are specifically needed in my case?
5. Which tests and investigations are truly necessary, and which can be skipped?
6. How can I best prepare for tests and for the doctor’s appointment?
7. What treatment options are available and how do they differ?
8. Is this condition fully treatable, or does it require long-term management?
9. What should I do if the prescribed treatment does not help?
10. Is it possible to avoid surgery or other interventions?
11. How long does treatment usually last and how often should I have follow-up checks?
12. What signs indicate that the condition is improving or worsening?
13. What should I do if symptoms suddenly worsen or there is an exacerbation?

Consulting a specialist helps to understand the cause of symptoms and to select an appropriate plan for diagnosis and treatment. If urgent symptoms arise, it is important to seek medical help immediately.

How the Consultation Proceeds

A consultation with a doctor for chronic urinary retention includes a detailed review of your complaints, an assessment of your condition, and the development of a plan for further steps. The extent of necessary examinations is determined individually, taking into account your indications and specific health characteristics. The goal of a single visit is to get a preliminary picture and outline the path forward, without guaranteeing an immediate definitive diagnosis.

1. Clarification of complaints and the purpose of the visit: when and how the symptoms appeared, what worsens or relieves the condition, and what you expect from the consultation.
2. Taking your medical history with an emphasis on factors that may affect urination and overall health.
3. Discussion of previous examinations and treatments, if any; requesting that you bring existing test results and a list of medications.
4. Conducting a physical examination and, if necessary, simple functional tests to help assess the situation on site.
5. Forming preliminary conclusions about possible causes and factors that need to be ruled out.
6. Developing a plan of examinations based on indications, which may include ultrasound, blood and urine tests, uroflowmetry, cystoscopy, or other procedures.
7. Explaining the general principles of further treatment and possible management options.
8. Discussing the timing and goals of follow-up visits, criteria for evaluating improvement, or the need for an unscheduled visit.

If you are experiencing these symptoms for the first time, the consultation will help clarify the causes in detail and outline sequential steps. If previous treatment has not yielded significant results, the doctor will carefully analyze possible reasons and adjust the plan of action to achieve a better outcome.

Preparation for the Appointment

To make your appointment with the urologist as effective as possible, it is important to prepare properly — this helps to reach a diagnosis faster and choose an appropriate treatment plan. Please follow this simple checklist before your visit.

• Bring a list of all current medications with their names and dosages, if known.
• Take any results from previous examinations and tests: ultrasounds, blood and urine analysis, medical reports.
• Write down your main complaints: when the symptoms appeared, what worsens or relieves your condition.
• Do not stop taking prescribed medications without consulting the doctor.
• Arrive 10–15 minutes before the scheduled time to complete registration.
• If you have any questions or doubts about the preparation, clarify them when making the appointment by phone.
• Do not eat or drink for 8–12 hours before the appointment unless otherwise instructed (check when booking).
• Avoid using cosmetics and creams on the face and pelvic area before the consultation if required.
• Bring a list of questions you want to discuss during the appointment.
• If necessary, prepare a symptom diary with detailed descriptions of their manifestations.

If you have any doubts about how to prepare properly, be sure to contact the clinic’s reception. Do not change your medication regimen without consulting Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko.

About the Doctor

Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko is a urologist, andrologist, oncologist, and a first-category physician with 20 years of experience. He specializes in treating patients with chronic urinary retention, including initial diagnosis, recurring symptoms, and cases where previous treatments have not been effective.

In his work, Sergey Nikolaevich pays special attention to differential diagnosis of causes and ongoing patient monitoring. During the consultation, you will receive a clear analysis of your situation and a plan for the next steps to manage and improve your condition.

Why Patients Choose Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko

When treating chronic urinary retention, this doctor focuses on a comprehensive analysis of the causes and the safe management of patients, taking into account all aspects of their health. The work is carried out step-by-step with a clear plan and constant monitoring of progress. Thanks to the ability to bring test results, the doctor effectively interprets the data, which helps save time and avoid unnecessary examinations.

• Clear treatment plan: what to do now, what to monitor, and when the next visit is
• Examinations are prescribed strictly according to indications, without unnecessary procedures
• Consideration of comorbidities and medications for safe and effective treatment
• Monitoring changes and timely adjustment of therapy if needed
• Review of previously prescribed medications and assessment of tolerance, including side effects
• Explanation of treatment goals and possible risks in clear, accessible language
• Management of complex and chronic cases with specific dynamics
• Emphasis on preventing complications and exacerbations to improve quality of life

Dr. Sergey Nikolaevich Glushchenko focuses on a consistent and transparent approach to managing patients with chronic urinary retention. This approach helps achieve more informed participation in treatment and timely response to changes in condition.

Case Studies

Initial Consultation for Difficulty Urinating

A middle-aged patient presented with complaints of difficulty initiating urination and a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. It was important to rule out infections and assess possible structural changes in the urinary system. A clinical evaluation, ultrasound examination, and basic laboratory tests were performed, followed by the development of an individualized examination and monitoring plan. Over time, there was a gradual reduction in symptoms and improved comfort during urination over several weeks. The patient continues to be monitored regularly with assessments and adjustments to recommendations as needed.

Treatment Adjustment in Case of No Effect

An elderly patient came with recurring complaints of urine retention; symptoms had not improved after previously prescribed treatment. It was crucial to carefully analyze the prescribed therapy, assess tolerance, and identify additional factors affecting the condition. The physician reviewed the management strategy, included further diagnostic tests, and adjusted the treatment plan. During follow-up, the patient's condition stabilized, symptom severity decreased, and functionality improved. The patient continues to receive support and ongoing care with the option for prompt therapeutic adjustments.

Chronic Course with Comorbidities

A middle-aged man with chronic urine retention and comorbid diabetes presented for comprehensive evaluation. The goal was to consider the impact of concurrent illnesses and select safe treatment methods. A comprehensive examination was conducted, interactions with medications were assessed, and an adapted therapy focusing on improving quality of life was prescribed. Over time, stabilization of symptoms and reduced discomfort were noted. The patient remains under regular observation for condition monitoring and complication prevention.

Exacerbation and Prophylaxis Plan

An elderly woman presented with a sudden worsening of urinary retention symptoms, accompanied by pain and discomfort. It was necessary to promptly exclude complications and adjust treatment. After additional diagnostics and temporary intensification of therapy, the patient received recommendations for preventing recurrent exacerbations. Follow-up examinations showed stabilization of her condition and improved overall well-being. The physician developed a personalized monitoring and preventive care plan aimed at maintaining long-term comfort and quality of life.

How long does the consultation last?

On average, the consultation takes 30-60 minutes; please check the exact time when booking.

How to prepare for the appointment?

Write down your symptoms, their onset and changes, and prepare a list of current medications.

What should I bring to the appointment?

Bring the results of examinations, tests, discharge summaries, and a list of medications you are taking.

Do I need to come fasting?

Usually no, unless otherwise specified when booking.

How many visits are usually required?

The number of visits depends on the situation and the chosen management strategy.

When can I expect the first results of the treatment?

The timing depends on the cause and therapy method; consult your doctor during the appointment.

What should I do if my condition worsens before the appointment?

If symptoms intensify or alarming signs appear, urgent medical attention is required.

Can I continue treatment with my current medications?

Discuss compatibility and any changes with your doctor; do not change treatment on your own.

Is it possible to have a consultation online?

Yes, online consultations are available by appointment.

Can I come with already completed examinations?

Yes, bring all relevant examination results for assessment.

Do I need to return for follow-up visits, and how often?

Follow-up visits are scheduled individually depending on the disease progression.

Can I get a second opinion?

Yes, if necessary, the doctor will provide a comprehensive evaluation of your current condition.

What should I do if symptoms return after improvement?

It is recommended to revisit your doctor to adjust the treatment plan.

What examinations may be needed?

Examinations are selected individually based on complaints and medical history.

Is it possible to undergo treatment without examinations?

Usually, examinations are important to choose the correct strategy and assess your condition.

What should I do if I don’t understand the prescribed treatment?

Discuss your questions with the doctor during the consultation to clarify recommendations.

Can I treat other diseases simultaneously?

If there are comorbidities, the doctor will consider the overall therapy for safety.

What should I do if the treatment has no effect?

Inform your doctor; plan adjustment or additional examinations may be required.