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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Intermittent Catheterization: A Brief Guide for Patients
Introduction
Intermittent catheterization is a procedure where a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) is inserted into the bladder to drain urine when a person is unable to urinate naturally. Unlike an indwelling catheter, which remains in place, an intermittent catheter is used temporarily and removed after drainage.
Who Needs It?
This technique is commonly recommended for patients with: - Neurogenic bladder (e.g., due to spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, or stroke) - Urinary retention (caused by conditions like prostate enlargement or diabetes) - Post-surgical bladder dysfunction
Benefits of Intermittent Catheterization
- Reduces risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) compared to long-term indwelling catheters
- Prevents bladder overdistension , which can damage bladder muscles
- Improves quality of life by allowing more independent urinary management
Steps of Intermittent Catheterization
- Wash hands to minimize infection risk
- Prepare the catheter (sterile or pre-lubricated)
- Position yourself comfortably (sitting or lying down)
- Insert the catheter gently into the urethra until urine flows
- Allow complete emptying of the bladder
- Slowly remove the catheter
- Dispose or clean the catheter based on type (single-use vs reusable)
Risks and Complications
While generally safe, possible complications include: - UTIs (proper hygiene and sterile techniques reduce this risk) - Bleeding or urethral irritation - Strictures (narrowing of the urethra) from repeated trauma
Practical Tips
- Drink sufficient fluids to keep urine clear
- Follow a regular catheterization schedule
- Monitor for UTI symptoms (burning sensation, cloudy urine, fever)
If you experience frequent infections, pain, or difficulty inserting the catheter, consult your healthcare provider.
Source recommendations
1. European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines on Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19403235/
- https://uroweb.org/guidelines/neuro-urology
- https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/adult-neurogenic-lower-urinary-tract-dysfunction
- https://uroweb.org/guidelines/management-of-non-neurogenic-male-luts
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0302283809004242
2. American Urological Association (AUA) Guidelines on Urodynamics
- https://www.auanet.org/documents/education/clinical-guidance/Adult-Urodynamics.pdf
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23098783/
- https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/adult-neurogenic-lower-urinary-tract-dysfunction
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25063591/
- https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/recurrent-uti
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
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