Urinary Retention and Lower Back Discomfort
A 38-year-old male weighing 237 pounds has been experiencing urinary issues over the past five days, noting significantly reduced urine output with a very feeble flow—occasionally just a dribble. Yesterday, he began feeling discomfort in his flank region, near where he suspects his kidney is located. Today, that discomfort continued but intensified. He sought help at a prompt care facility where a urinalysis was conducted, revealing no abnormalities. The medical advice he received was to increase his fluid intake. While at the facility, he began to experience severe pain in the lower part of his back, right in the center, making bending a challenge. Currently, he is applying ice to the affected area; however, it's uncomfortable for him to lie down or stand. He wonders if the urinary issues and the back pain are connected and is reluctant to visit the emergency room due to financial concerns. Additionally, he recalls a couple of relevant incidents: last Saturday marked the first time he had gone roller skating in many years, during which he noticed some discomfort in the perineum. He has also been dealing with a cyst in his pubic region for a month, which is gradually improving.
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 3:50:25 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with a concerning set of symptoms, including urinary retention, lower back pain, and flank discomfort. These issues can indeed be interconnected, particularly if there's pressure or pain affecting the urinary tract or surrounding areas. It's good that you've sought medical advice already, but let’s explore some actionable steps to help you manage your symptoms effectively.
Explanation
Your symptoms of reduced urine output and urine flow, along with flank and back pain, could indicate a few potential issues, including urinary obstruction, inflammation, or issues related to the cyst you've mentioned. The discomfort in the perineum following roller skating might also be contributing. Back pain can result from muscular strain, nerve compression, or inflammation related to these other symptoms.
Next Steps
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Hydration: Continue to increase your fluid intake to help facilitate urination. Aim for at least 2-3 liters (or about 8-12 cups) of water daily. Monitor if this leads to an increase in urine output. If not, it may indicate a more serious blockage.
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Pain Management: Since you are already using ice on your lower back, you might find relief by alternating with heat after the first 48 hours (use a heating pad or warm cloth). This can help reduce muscle tension. Over-the-counter pain relief (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can also be beneficial if you haven't taken them before and have no medical contraindications.
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Light Activity: Avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity that may strain your back. Gentle stretching exercises can help relieve some tension but stop if there’s significant discomfort.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your urine output, any changes in pain levels, and the appearance of your cyst. If the pain becomes severe, worsens, or if you experience any new concerning symptoms such as fever, chills, or difficulty urinating altogether, it is crucial to reassess and consider seeking further medical care even if financial concerns arise.
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Follow-Up: Maintain a close watch on these symptoms over the next few days. If there’s no improvement or symptoms worsen, it’s important to find a way to get medical attention, as untreated urinary issues can lead to more serious complications.
You’re doing the right thing by staying observant of your symptoms. If you need further clarification on any of these steps, feel free to ask. Take care of yourself!
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