Question Title: Not Able To Void....Neurogenic Bladder?

I am trying to get into see new neurologist in January for fresh start on workup for MS. I wasn't happy with past doctor.
Do you have any suggestions. I work at a hospital considered grabbing a view self-cath kits if it happens again.

Thanks, Lisa Carpenter

Dear Lisa,

Thank you for your question. Urinary urgency and frequency, as well as urinary retention, can be due to a "neurogenic bladder". The first step however is to check for a urinary infection. You should certainly mention your bladder symptoms to your neurologist.

From a practical point of view, it is important to know if you are emptying your bladder correctly. Chronic urinary retention increases the risk of urinary infection and can affect your kidneys in the long term. The best way to determine if you have urinary retention is to evaluate your post-voiding residual, that is to measure the voiding volume, and then perform a catheterization to check what is left in he bladder (this residual volume should be <100cc). If you have the feeling that your bladder if not functioning correctly, I would recommend that you get a specialized evaluation soon, rather than trying to do something on your own without really knowing what is going on. Some urologists are specialized in the diagnostic and management of neurogenic bladder. If necessary, a urodynamic evaluation can identify and quantify the dysfunction in your bladder, and allow to treat your symptoms adequately.

I hope this helped. Remember that this information is disclosed only for the purpose of general medical education.