Bladder Obstruction
Bladder obstruction refers to any blockage that prevents urine from flowing normally out of the bladder. This obstruction may be partial or complete and can occur from conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urethral strictures, bladder stones, tumors, or severe inflammation. When urine cannot empty properly, the bladder may stretch, the bladder wall may thicken, and pressure can back up into the kidneys, potentially causing further complications.
What is it?
Bladder obstruction occurs when something blocks or narrows the pathway through which urine leaves the bladder. Common causes include an enlarged prostate in men, urethral strictures, bladder stones, tumors, or inflammation from infection. Over time, the bladder may work harder to push urine past the obstruction, causing the bladder wall to thicken and potentially altering bladder function.
Imaging can show a distended bladder, thickened bladder wall, trapped urine after voiding, or the underlying cause of the obstruction. Ultrasound is often used to measure how much urine remains after urination, while CT or MRI may reveal structural abnormalities or stones contributing to blockage.
Important to Know
If untreated, bladder obstruction can lead to urinary retention, recurrent infections, bladder damage, or even kidney injury as pressure backs up into the urinary tract. Early detection and treatment can prevent these complications. Many causes—such as BPH—are treatable with medications or minimally invasive procedures.
Red flag symptoms include an inability to urinate, severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain, fever, blood in the urine, or symptoms of infection. These require prompt medical attention, as acute urinary retention can be an emergency. Follow-up imaging or testing may be recommended to monitor bladder function and ensure the obstruction has resolved.