Go to A&E immediately if you suddenly cannot pass urine at all, especially if your bladder feels full or your lower abdomen is painful or swollen. This can be acute urinary retention and needs emergency treatment. Call 995 if you collapse, become unresponsive or have another life-threatening sign. SingHealth urinary warning signs · NIDDK urinary retention guidance · SCDF emergency medical services
Tell triage when you last passed a normal amount of urine. Mention if you can pass only a few drops and still feel painfully full. A clinician needs to assess whether the bladder is retaining urine or another problem is reducing urine output. NIDDK urinary retention guidance
- Sudden inability to urinate → go to A&E immediately.
- Give the time you last passed urine and describe any pain or fullness.
- Mention recent surgery, any catheter and medicines you take.
On this page · What to Tell Triage · What Emergency Treatment May Involve · Frequently Asked Questions
What to Tell Triage
Say whether the problem came on suddenly or your stream had been getting weaker over time. Report any blood in the urine and whether you recently had surgery or a catheter removed. Bring your medication list if it is readily available. NIDDK urinary retention guidance · SingHealth urinary warning signs · MOH emergency department guidance
What Emergency Treatment May Involve
If the bladder is acutely retaining urine, a healthcare professional may drain it with a catheter. This can relieve pressure and help protect the bladder and kidneys. The team will then consider what caused the problem. NIDDK treatment for urinary retention
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wait until tomorrow?
Go to A&E now if you suddenly cannot urinate. NIDDK urinary retention guidance · SingHealth urinary warning signs
Is a weak stream always an emergency?
A gradual weak stream or a sense of incomplete emptying still deserves medical assessment. Sudden inability to pass urine needs immediate emergency care. NIDDK urinary retention guidance