Can Alcohol Cause Urinary Retention?
We found no official health page that lists alcohol as a cause of urinary retention. NIDDK says retention comes from a blockage or from a bladder that cannot push out all the urine. If you cannot urinate, get medical care promptly.
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We use your email only for this download.What NIDDK says causes retention
NIDDK says urinary retention results from either a blockage that partly or fully stops urine flow, or a bladder that lacks enough force to expel all the urine. It can be acute (a sudden inability to urinate) or chronic (a gradual failure to empty the bladder fully).
Symptoms
NIDDK says symptoms range from severe abdominal pain and the inability to urinate to few or no symptoms at all. MedlinePlus, describing blocked urine flow, lists a weak stream or trouble starting, dribbling, feeling the bladder is not empty, less urine output, and blood in the urine.
Where alcohol fits
Neither NIDDK nor the MedlinePlus page we read mentions alcohol as a cause. Medical case reports may describe retention after heavy drinking, but we did not use them as a source and cannot give you a rule from them. Alcohol can also interact with some medicines, so mention your drinking to your doctor if you are being treated for bladder or prostate problems.
What to do
- If you cannot pass urine, or have severe belly pain, seek urgent medical care.
- If you have a weak stream or often feel you have not emptied your bladder, see a doctor.
This is general information, not medical advice.
People also ask
What causes urinary retention?
NIDDK says a blockage that partly or fully stops urine flow, or a bladder without enough force to empty fully.
What are the symptoms of urinary retention?
NIDDK says they range from severe abdominal pain and inability to urinate to few or no symptoms.
Should I see a doctor if I cannot urinate after drinking?
Yes. Inability to urinate needs prompt medical care; ask a doctor rather than waiting.
Sources
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