Interrapted urination refers to a urinary condition characterized by a stop-start flow during urination. This can be caused by a variety of underlying issues, including prostate problems, bladder stones, or infections. Men with prostate enlargement or prostatitis commonly experience this symptom.

Additionally, neurological disorders affecting bladder control, or urethral strictures (narrowing of the urethra) can also result in interrupted urine flow. Diagnosing the exact cause typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and diagnostic tests such as urinalysis, imaging studies, or urodynamic tests. Treatment varies based on the underlying cause and can range from medication to surgery.

What is “interrupted urine”

“Interrupted urine” refers to a condition where the flow of urine stops and starts intermittently during urination. This can manifest as a series of starts and stops instead of a smooth, continuous stream.

Causes

Several factors can contribute to interrupted urine flow, including:

Prostate Issues:

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Enlargement of the prostate gland can compress the urethra, causing intermittent flow.
• Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate can also lead to interrupted urination.

Bladder Problems:

• Bladder Stones: Stones in the bladder can obstruct the urinary flow.
  • Bladder Tumors: Growths within the bladder can cause blockage and disrupt the stream.

Urethral Strictures: Narrowing of the urethra due to scarring or injury can impede urine flow.

Neurological Disorders: Conditions affecting the nerves that control the bladder and urethra, such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries, can result in interrupted urine flow.

Infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) or other infections can cause inflammation and swelling, leading to flow disruption.

Symptoms

Symptoms of interrupted urine flow usually involves:

• Stop-start urination.
• A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
• Straining to urinate.
• Dribbling at the end of urination

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the cause of interrupted urine flow usually involves:

• Medical History: Discussing symptoms and any underlying health conditions.
• Physical Examination: Checking for physical abnormalities.
• Urinalysis: Testing urine for infections or abnormalities.
• Imaging Studies: Ultrasound or CT scans to visualize the urinary tract.
• Urodynamic Tests: Measuring bladder function and urine flow.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

• Medications: Alpha-blockers or 5-alpha reductase inhibitors for BPH, antibiotics for infections.
• Surgery: Procedures to remove blockages like bladder stones or tumors, or to correct urethral strictures.
• Lifestyle Changes: Fluid management, bladder training exercises.

If you’re experiencing interrupted urine flow, it’s essential to consult a urologist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Summary

“Interrupted urine” refers to a condition where the flow of urine stops and starts intermittently during urination. This can be caused by various issues, including prostate problems (such as benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis), bladder stones, urethral strictures, neurological disorders, or urinary tract infections. Symptoms include a stop-start urine stream, straining to urinate, and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. Diagnosis typically involves medical history, physical examination, urinalysis, and imaging studies. Treatment varies depending on the cause and may include medications, surgery, or lifestyle changes. If you experience interrupted urine flow, consulting a Urologist is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Prof. Dr. Emin ÖZBEK

Urologist

Istanbul- TURKEY