Distended Bladder: Symptoms, Causes, and How to Treat It

What is a Distended Bladder?

A distended bladder, or a urinary bladder distended beyond its normal capacity, occurs when the bladder stretches and becomes enlarged due to an inability to empty fully. This condition can lead to discomfort, frequent urination, and other urinary issues.

The bladder is a hollow, muscular organ located in the pelvis. Its primary function is to store urine produced by the kidneys until it is ready to be expelled from the body. When the bladder fills with urine, its walls stretch, and nerve signals are sent to the brain, creating the urge to urinate. Typically, the bladder can hold about 500 milliliters in women and 700 ml in men of urine comfortably, notes IQWiG. 

When full, the bladder contracts and the sphincter muscle relaxes to allow urine to pass through the urethra and out of the body. In a healthy system, this process occurs smoothly. However, if something disrupts this process, such as a blockage or nerve damage, the bladder can become distended and unable to be emptied properly.

Causes of Distended Bladder

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) can cause inflammation in the bladder, making it difficult for the urinary bladder to contract and empty fully. This can result in a poorly distended bladder, where urine builds up, causing discomfort and increased frequency of urination. Over time, repeated infections can reduce the bladder's elasticity, leading to chronic distention.

Neurological Conditions

Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries, can interfere with the signals between the brain and bladder. This disruption can prevent the bladder from emptying completely, leading to an under-distended bladder or even bladder distention. Individuals with these conditions might experience issues like a moderately or mildly distended bladder due to irregular bladder contractions.

Medications

Certain medications, including those that affect the nervous system or cause fluid retention, can contribute to urinary retention, leading to a distended bladder. These medications might prevent the bladder from emptying fully, causing urine to accumulate. It’s crucial to discuss any new medications with your doctor to avoid side effects like a bladder partially distended.

Surgery and Blockages

Surgical procedures, especially those involving the pelvic area, can result in scarring or swelling that obstructs the urinary tract, leading to bladder distention. Additionally, blockages such as bladder stones or tumors can prevent urine from leaving the bladder, resulting in a distended urinary bladder. This condition can be serious if left untreated, leading to further complications.

Symptoms of a Distended Bladder

A distended bladder can present with various symptoms, some more common than others. Recognizing these signs early can help prevent further complications:

• Urinary Incontinence: Involuntary leakage of urine, often due to the bladder being unable to hold the excess volume. About 25%-33% of men and women in the U.S. experience urinary incontinence, claims the Urology Care Foundation.
• Pelvic and Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic area in both men and women.
• Frequent Urination: An increased urge to urinate, often accompanied by the sensation of not fully emptying the bladder. Women, particularly after childbirth, are more likely to experience bladder issues like urinary incontinence, which can be related to bladder distention.

Additional Symptoms

Here are less common or more specific signs that might also indicate a distended bladder:

• Weak Urine Stream: Difficulty in starting or maintaining a steady urine flow.
• Feeling of Incomplete Emptying: A sensation that the bladder hasn't been completely emptied after urination.
• Bladder Spasms: Sudden, involuntary contractions of the bladder muscles, which can be painful and lead to urinary urgency.

If you experience any of these symptoms, using an online tool like the Symptom Checker can help you identify possible conditions. However, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Complications of a Distended Bladder

If a distended bladder is left untreated, it can lead to significant long-term complications. Chronic urinary retention can cause bladder dysfunction, where the bladder muscles weaken, making it increasingly difficult to empty the bladder fully. This can result in frequent infections and, in severe cases, kidney damage due to the backflow of urine into the kidneys (hydronephrosis). Over time, these issues can lead to kidney failure, which is life-threatening.

It’s crucial to seek prompt medical care if you suspect a distended bladder. Early intervention can prevent severe complications and restore normal bladder function. 

Warning: If you experience symptoms like severe pelvic pain, inability to urinate, or signs of infection such as fever or chills, immediate medical attention is necessary.

Diagnosis and Tests

Diagnosing a distended bladder often involves an ultrasound, which helps visualize the bladder to check for abnormal enlargement. Another common test is the post-void residual urine test, which measures the amount of urine left in the bladder after urination. These tests help determine how well the bladder is functioning and identify the presence of urinary retention.

Treatment Options and Management

Medical Interventions

• Catheterization: Inserting a catheter into the bladder to drain urine can provide immediate relief and prevent complications.
• Medications: Prescribed to manage underlying causes or to relax bladder muscles, improving urine flow.
• Surgical Options: Necessary when physical blockages, such as tumors or stones, are causing the distention.

Lifestyle Modifications

Implementing lifestyle changes can significantly help in managing a distended bladder. Reducing intake of bladder irritants like caffeine, staying hydrated, and performing pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) can strengthen bladder control.

Preventive Measures

Preventing bladder distention involves regular monitoring, managing underlying conditions, and avoiding holding urine for prolonged periods. For individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes or neurological disorders, effective management of these issues is crucial. Up to 50% of people with diabetes may develop some form of bladder dysfunction during their lifetime, notes AUA.

Regularly monitoring blood sugar levels, adhering to prescribed treatments, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of bladder complications.