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What Are the Causes of Urinary Obstruction?

Decreased ability to pass urine, flank or abdominal pain or bloody urine can indicate an obstruction. According to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics website, causes of urinary obstruction include tumors or scar tissue in the ureters (the tubes connecting the kidneys and bladder); prostate enlargement; blood clots; kidney, bladder or ureter stones; or pelvic fracture.

  1. Significance

    • Urinary obstruction can stem from benign or malignant causes. Seek medical attention if you have trouble urinating or bladder or kidney pain, so your condition can be diagnosed and treated.

    Time Frame

    • Early detection and treatment can improve the prognosis and quality of life.

    Identification

    • To identify the cause of a urinary obstruction, your doctor may use medical imaging of the urinary tract, a prostate exam, blood and urine tests and pelvic X-rays.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Blocked ureters can be treated with a surgical procedure to unblock the tubes. Prostate enlargement is relieved by medication or surgery, while blood clots and stones can be dissolved with medication.

    Warning

    • If urinary flow is interrupted or severely impaired, kidney damage can occur. Without treatment, these conditions can be life threatening.

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