Urinary retention is the inability to completely or partially empty the bladder. When you have this condition, you may be unable to start urination, or if you are able to start, you can't fully empty your bladder. Symptoms associated with this condition vary according to which type of urinary retention you’ve been diagnosed with. Left untreated, urinary retention can cause severe pain, discomfort, and other medical issues. In some cases, this condition can be life-threatening. You may need to seek emergency medical treatment.
With acute urinary retention, a health care professional will immediately drain the urine from your bladder using a catheter. Removing the urine from the bladder eases your pain and helps prevent your bladder and kidneys from being damaged. If you have chronic urinary retention, your health care professional will first try to diagnose and treat the cause of your retention. Read the article further to know about some effective home remedies to treat the symptoms of urinary retention.
Home remedies for urinary retention
Before incorporating any medication into your treatment plan, consult your options with a doctor. Here are some home remedies that can help in treating urinary retention:
1. Kegel exercises
Your health care professional may suggest that you work with a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor problems. The physical therapist will work to stretch tight pelvic floor muscles and help you keep them relaxed. Pelvic floor muscle exercises, also called Kegel exercises, help the nerves and muscles that you use to empty your bladder work better.
Also read: 7 Simple Ways To Reduce Water Retention In The Body
2. Take time to relax
Take extra time in the bathroom to relax and empty the bladder completely. Women should try to relax the muscles around their bladder when they urinate to make it easier to go. It’s best to sit on the toilet seat or in a full crouching squat. Hovering over a toilet seat to avoid touching it does not allow muscles to fully relax and may result in urine being left in the bladder.
3. Peppermint oil
Researchers say peppermint oil may help to treat bladder issues, including postpartum urinary retention in women. To encourage urination, place a few drops of peppermint oil into the toilet water. The vapor from the oil will contact the perineum to increase urine flow. Don’t apply essential oils directly to the skin without diluting.
4. Dandelion
Dandelion is a wild herb known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It’s been used historically to treat kidney disease and upset stomach. Because of its anti-inflammatory abilities, it’s also been used to treat bladder inflammation and retention. It can be also used to treat bladder inflammation and retention. Use it as a tea. Drink the tea twice a day.
Also read: Not Able To Control Urine? Here Are Tips For Elderly To Deal With Incontinence
5. Stinging nettle
The stinging nettle plant which is also called Urtica dioica can help in providing relief with the symptoms of urinary retention. It can treat the signs of an enlarged prostate, including urinary retention. Use the nettle root to make tea and have it three times a day. You can also consume this plant as a pill or through an extract. If you begin to experience irregular bloating or digestive issues, stop use immediately.
Urinary retention is a painful and potentially life-threatening condition. While there are home remedies available for treatment, doctors recommend traditional treatment options for a more effective outcome. Your health care professional may suggest timed voiding—urinating at set times—to help prevent your bladder from becoming too full.