[45M] Experiencing intermittent urinary retention and nocturia

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): This is a common condition in men as they get older. The prostate gland, which is located just below the bladder, enlarges and can cause problems with urination. Symptoms can include difficulty starting to urinate, weak urine flow, sudden urge to urinate, and frequent urination at night.

  • Treatment typically involves medication to either shrink the prostate or relax muscles in the prostate and bladder neck. In some cases, surgery may be required.

• Overactive Bladder (OAB): This is a condition where the bladder can't hold urine normally. Symptoms can include a sudden urge to urinate, frequent urination, and nocturia (waking up from sleep to urinate).

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, bladder training exercises, medication, or a combination of these.

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is an infection in any part of your urinary system — your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, but some are caused by viruses and fungi. UTIs are more common in women than in men. Symptoms can include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation when urinating, passing frequent, small amounts of urine, and urine that appears cloudy.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to alleviate your symptoms:

1. Limit drinks that can irritate your bladder, such as coffee, alcohol, and acidic juices.
2. Try to empty your bladder completely when you urinate.
3. Avoid drinking fluids within a few hours of bedtime to prevent waking up at night to urinate.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If you notice blood in your urine
• If you develop a fever (temperature over >100.4°F) or chills
• If you experience lower back or abdominal pain
• If you cannot pass urine at all

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in person.