Male Urinary Problems and the Use of Catheters

Bladder problems are common but highly treatable. The most common causes of male urinary problems include age, enlarged prostate gland, diabetes, cancer treatment, interstitial cystitis, medications such as antidepressants, and certain health conditions. In some cases, they are caused by spina bifida, injured bladder nerves, and spinal cord injury. Healthcare providers sometimes advise people with urinary problems to use catheters. A urinary catheter is a latex, silicone, or polythurene tube placed in the body to drain urine from the bladder. They are recommended for people with urinary incontinence, urinary retention, and medical conditions like dementia and multiple acrostics. They are also used by many ICU patients who are too sick to use a bedpan.

The three main types of catheters are indwelling catheters, external catheters, and short-term catheters. Indwelling catheters, also known as Foley catheters, are inserted into the bladder through the urethra. They stay in for a longer period of time and are perfect for people with urine-controlling issues, enlarged prostate, and other male urinary problems. External catheters, also known as condom catheters, are applied over a penis and are connected to a drainage bag. People with severe mental disabilities are advised to use external catheters. Short-term catheters, also known as intermittent catheters, stay in for one to two days. They are also called in-and-out catheters, as people need them for a short period of time after surgery to empty their bladder.

Catheters are invasive medical devices that can cause bladder stones, kidney damage, and septicemia. They can sometimes allow bacteria to enter your body. Wearing a catheter makes you feel like your bladder is full – all the time. People also experience discomfort and pain, which can be relieved by ensuring that they remain free of tangles. Getting back to routine after getting a catheter removed can take a few days. The urethra takes 14 to 21 days to heal after a catheter. You should consider getting MUDS if you are looking for a non-invasive alternative to a catheter. It is perfect for people with various male urinary problems, including urinary incontinence, generalized weakness, and urinary retention. The unit is attached to the bedrail, which prevents infection and other complications. Unlike Foley catheters and urinals, MUDS can hold 2500ml worth of output. With MUDS, the risk associated with injury, infection, fluid overload, and impaired skin integrity is considerably low. People who are on the lookout for a safe urinary drainage system shouldn’t think before getting MUDS.