Why Do I Struggle to Urinate?
Jan 14, 2025
For most people, going to the bathroom is something you do without thinking twice. It’s a routine, effortless stop in your busy day. But what does it mean when the simple act of urination becomes a struggle?
Urinary issues are more common than you may think, especially for men over 50. Whether it’s a weak stream, that feeling like you can’t fully empty your bladder, or pain during urination, these issues can cause discomfort in more ways than one.
Experience exceptional, patient-focused care with David B. Samadi, a fellowship-trained urologist with years of experience helping men find relief from urinary and bladder-related symptoms. Here, we explore some common reasons why you may struggle to urinate — often referred to as urinary hesitancy — and when you should seek treatment from a trusted practitioner like Dr. Samadi.
An enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), affects around half of men over 50 and becomes even more common as you continue to age past that. In fact, this natural enlargement is one of the top reasons why men experience urinary hesitancy.
Urine exits the bladder through a channel that passes directly through the prostate. As the prostate gland grows, it can put pressure on this channel, blocking the flow of urine and leading to symptoms such as:
BPH isn’t a sign of cancer. However, prostate cancer can also cause urinary hesitancy. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s crucial to see Dr. Samadi so we can rule out a more serious diagnosis.
Bacterial infections can cause prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate gland. Similar to an enlarged prostate due to BPH, this swelling can cause symptoms like a weak urine stream and incomplete bladder emptying.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like gonorrhea and chlamydia, and urinary tract infections (UTIs), can also lead to inflammation that makes urination difficult.
Surgeries that involve the urethra, bladder, or kidneys may result in the formation of scar tissue that narrows the urethral passage. A narrowed urethra can limit the flow of urine, leading to urinary hesitancy symptoms. In severe cases, this can be painful and even cut off urine flow entirely.
Don’t ignore uncomfortable or frustrating urinary symptoms. While an enlarged prostate is a natural part of aging and there’s no way to prevent it, certain lifestyle adjustments can help reduce mild urinary difficulties. Dr. Samadi recommends:
Dr. Samadi offers advanced diagnostic testing to pinpoint the underlying cause of your urinary issues, and cutting-edge treatment options, including robotic surgery, when necessary. This minimally invasive technique minimizes the risk of surgical complications, leading to a faster recovery and improved outcomes.
The bottom line? If you’re experiencing any changes in your urination patterns, consulting with Dr. Samadi is essential.
For exceptional urological care in New York City, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Samadi at our Midtown Manhattan office. You can also find Dr. Samadi at St. Francis Hospital and Heart Center in East Hills, New York (Long Island), once a week.