What is functional urinary retention?

Functional urinary retention (FUR), also known as non-obstructive retention, is a form of urinary retention in which the bladder is unable to empty effectively, despite the absence of any physical blockage. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

- Neurological disorders: FUR is often associated with neurological conditions such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. In these conditions, damage to the nerves that control bladder function can disrupt normal bladder emptying.

- Medications: Certain medications, including anticholinergics, opioids, and tricyclic antidepressants, can affect bladder function and lead to FUR.

- Diabetes: FUR can be a complication of diabetes due to nerve damage caused by the condition (diabetic neuropathy).

- Pregnancy: FUR can sometimes occur during pregnancy due to the increased pressure on the bladder from the growing uterus.

- Prostate enlargement: In men, FUR can be a symptom of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia), which can obstruct the flow of urine.

Symptoms of FUR include:

- Difficulty starting to urinate

- Straining or pushing to urinate

- A weak or interrupted urine stream

- Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying

- Frequent urination

- Urinary incontinence

FUR is diagnosed based on a person's symptoms, a physical examination, and imaging tests to rule out any physical obstruction. Treatment for FUR typically involves addressing the underlying cause, which may include medication adjustments, lifestyle changes, or physical therapy. In some cases, a catheter may be necessary to drain the bladder if it becomes too full.