An obstruction in any part of the man’s urinary tract can interrupt the normal urine flow. The blockage could be in the kidneys, which produce urine, or the urethra (responsible for releasing it). It’s important to see a urologist in Navi Mumbai if you suspect urine blockage, as an untreated obstruction can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, infection, and, in severe cases, kidney damage. The question is, what causes urine blockages in males? Let’s delve into some common reasons that might contribute.
What Causes Urine Blockage In Males?
1) Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH):
This is the most common cause of urine blockages in men. With age, the prostate gland that sits right beneath the bladder tends to get bigger. Its increased size can squeeze the urethra, affecting the urine flow. If your urinary obstruction is caused by BPH, you might also experience frequent urination, an inability to empty the bladder, and a weak or slow stream.
2) Kidney Stones:
These are hard mineral deposits that form in your kidneys and might travel down the ureters, causing an obstruction. These crystals can block the ureters (which carry urine to the bladder). The hallmark sign of kidney stones is debilitating pain in the back. Some people experience blood in the urine and nausea.
3) Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):
UTI cases are more common in women, but men can also get this bacterial infection. It can block the urethra, disrupting the urine flow. If the blockage occurs due to UTI, you might notice cloudy urine, pain with a burning sensation while urinating, hematuria, and an uncontrollable urge to urinate.
4) Urethral Stricture:
Men who’ve had surgery or experienced a trauma that resulted in scar tissue formation in the urethra can also develop urine blockage. This happens due to the narrowing of the urethra due to scar tissue, inflammation, or an infection.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Urinary obstruction can occur suddenly or gradually. Symptoms usually vary depending on the severity of the blockage. Here are some common symptoms people with a blocked urinary tract might experience:
- Difficulty starting to urinate
- Slow urine stream
- Frequent urge to urinate
- The feeling of unemptied bladder
- Pain during urination
- Blood in the urine
- Back pain
Treatment Options
Treatment of urinary obstruction in Navi Mumbai is determined based on what’s caused it. Here are a few options a urologist will discuss with you.
a) Medications:
Certain medications can help bring the prostate back to its normal size, although these may not always be effective. If you have a UTI, antibiotics can help clear the infection.
b) Surgical Interventions:
Surgery to widen the urethra may be necessary in case of urethral stricture. Surgery might also be needed in men with enlarged prostate or kidney stones that are too big to be removed naturally.
c) Lifestyle Changes:
A few lifestyle tips, such as limiting your caffeine and alcohol intake, drinking plenty of fluids, and peeing when you feel the urge to urinate, can help ensure optimal kidney function. See a urologist immediately if you experience a complete urinary tract obstruction with the inability to urinate.