Always feeling the urge to urinate but unable to do so?
Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about symptoms I experienced a year ago related to urethritis.
I saw a doctor and took medication, and it did not recur.
However, I now sometimes feel the urge to urinate but have little to no urine output.
After urinating, I still feel the need to go again, and when I press on my bladder, it feels empty, yet I still have the urge to urinate.
I typically drink about 1500 to 3000 ml of water a day, and this is really bothering me.
What could these symptoms indicate?
629, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/24
Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Hello, Miss: Your symptoms are indicative of frequent urination.
It is recommended to first conduct a urinalysis to rule out the possibility of infection before considering other potential causes.
Chen Jian-sheng, Department of Urology, Hsin Ying Hospital.
Reply Date: 2016/05/24
More Info
The symptoms you are experiencing, characterized by a constant urge to urinate with little to no output, can be quite distressing and may indicate a condition known as Overactive Bladder (OAB). This condition is often associated with a frequent need to urinate, urgency, and sometimes incontinence. It can occur even when the bladder is not full, leading to the sensation of needing to urinate without the ability to produce a significant amount of urine.
Given your history of urethritis, it is possible that the inflammation from that condition may have contributed to the development of OAB. In some cases, the bladder can become hypersensitive, leading to an exaggerated urge to urinate. This can be exacerbated by factors such as stress, anxiety, or even certain dietary choices, such as caffeine or alcohol, which can irritate the bladder.
In your case, the fact that you are drinking a substantial amount of water (1500-3000 ml per day) suggests that your body is adequately hydrated, but the persistent urge to urinate despite low output indicates that there may be an underlying issue with bladder function or nerve signaling. It is also important to consider that conditions such as interstitial cystitis (IC) or bladder inflammation could be contributing to your symptoms, especially if you have experienced pain or discomfort in the bladder area.
To further evaluate your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a urologist who can perform a thorough assessment, including a physical examination and possibly urodynamic studies. These tests can help determine how well your bladder is functioning and whether there are any abnormalities in bladder capacity or nerve function.
Treatment options for OAB may include lifestyle modifications, bladder training techniques, and medications that can help relax the bladder and reduce urgency. In some cases, physical therapy or pelvic floor exercises may also be beneficial. If your symptoms are related to inflammation or irritation, your doctor may recommend treatments such as bladder instillations with medications like hyaluronic acid, which can help soothe the bladder lining.
It is essential to address these symptoms promptly, as they can significantly impact your quality of life. Keeping a diary of your fluid intake, urination patterns, and any associated symptoms can be helpful for your healthcare provider in diagnosing and managing your condition effectively.
In summary, the constant urge to urinate with little output can be indicative of OAB or other bladder-related conditions. Seeking a professional evaluation is crucial to determine the underlying cause and to develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.
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