Rapid, Specialized Urologic Support for Foreigners Facing Sudden or Chronic Symptoms

Struggling to urinate despite the urge—or unable to empty your bladder completely? You may be experiencing urinary retention (요폐 – yopae), a condition that requires prompt medical attention. Whether acute or chronic, urinary retention can be painful, distressing, and lead to complications if not treated properly. For expats or travelers in Korea, clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic provide fast, discreet, and expert care using advanced diagnostics and treatment tailored to both men and women.

What Is Urinary Retention and What Causes It?

Urinary retention is the inability to empty the bladder fully. It may come on suddenly (acute) or develop gradually over time (chronic).

Types:

• Acute Retention: Sudden inability to urinate, often accompanied by pain and bladder distention—this is a medical emergency.
• Chronic Retention: Gradual weakening of bladder emptying, often without noticeable symptoms until complications arise (e.g., infections, kidney damage).

Common Causes:

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – most common in men
• Bladder Outlet Obstruction – due to urethral stricture, stones, or tumors
• Nerve Dysfunction (Neurogenic Bladder) – from spinal injury, diabetes, multiple sclerosis
• Medication Side Effects – especially antihistamines, decongestants, and certain antidepressants
• Post-surgical or Post-catheterization Effects
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse (in women)

Evaluation of Urinary Retention in Korea: Efficient and Comprehensive

At Gangnam J Urology Clinic, you can expect same-day testing and immediate relief if needed, especially for acute cases.

1. Urgent Symptom Evaluation:
   In cases of acute retention, the clinic will prioritize rapid bladder decompression with catheterization.
2. Bladder Scan or Ultrasound (방광 초음파):
   Measures post-void residual (PVR) volume to assess how much urine remains after voiding.
3. Uroflowmetry:
   Evaluates the rate and pattern of urination—important for detecting obstruction or bladder dysfunction.
4. Urinalysis and Urine Culture:
   Checks for infection or inflammation that may contribute to retention.
5. Prostate Evaluation (in men):
   Digital rectal exam and PSA test if BPH or prostatitis is suspected.
6. Neurologic Screening or Urodynamics (if needed):
   For chronic retention or suspected nerve-related causes.

Urinary Retention Treatment in Korea: Prompt Relief with Long-Term Solutions

The first priority is relieving discomfort and preventing complications. Then, treatment focuses on resolving the underlying issue.

1. Immediate Relief for Acute Retention:

• Urethral or Suprapubic Catheterization:
  A catheter is inserted to drain the bladder and relieve pressure. For severe retention, temporary catheter use may continue at home.

2. Medication Management:

• Alpha-Blockers (e.g., tamsulosin):
  Relax the bladder neck and prostate to improve urine flow—especially in men with BPH.
• 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors (e.g., finasteride):
  Help shrink the prostate over time.
• Antibiotics:
  Prescribed if retention is related to urinary tract infection or prostatitis.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures:

• TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate):
  Gold standard for BPH-related retention.
• Laser Surgery (e.g., HoLEP):
  Modern approach with faster recovery.
• Urethral Dilation or Stenting:
  Used for strictures or anatomical narrowing.
• Prostatic Artery Embolization:
  An alternative for patients unfit for surgery.

4. Long-Term Management:

• Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC):
  For chronic retention when natural voiding is not possible.
• Pelvic Floor Training or Neuromodulation:
  Used in cases of bladder dysfunction or nerve-related retention.

Why Choose a Korean Urology Clinic Like Gangnam J for Urinary Retention?

• Immediate Access to Care: Acute urinary retention is treated promptly—often within minutes of arrival.
• Urology-Focused Expertise: Doctors are trained in complex bladder and prostate disorders.
• Advanced Equipment: Clinics offer real-time ultrasound, uroflowmetry, and in-house catheter care.
• Multilingual Services: English-speaking staff are often available at Gangnam-area clinics.
• Private, Efficient Environment: Discreet care in a clean, modern setting designed for international patients.

Cost of Urinary Retention Evaluation and Treatment in Korea

With NHIS Coverage:

• Consultation: ₩5,000 – ₩20,000
• Bladder Ultrasound: ₩15,000 – ₩40,000
• Uroflowmetry: ₩10,000 – ₩25,000
• Catheter Insertion: ₩20,000 – ₩50,000 (including supplies)
• Medications: ₩5,000 – ₩20,000
• TURP (co-pay): ₩200,000 – ₩400,000
  Total (with NHIS): ₩30,000 – ₩500,000 depending on severity and procedure

Without NHIS (Out-of-Pocket):

• Consultation: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
• Imaging and Testing: ₩50,000 – ₩150,000
• Catheterization: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
• Medications: ₩10,000 – ₩30,000
• TURP or Laser Surgery: ₩1,500,000 – ₩3,000,000
  Total (without NHIS): ₩150,000 – ₩3,000,000+, depending on treatment path

When to Seek Urgent Help for Urinary Retention

Go to a clinic immediately if you:

• Are unable to urinate at all despite a full bladder
• Feel abdominal swelling or pain from retained urine
• Have fever, chills, or back pain (possible infection)
• Experience blood in urine or complete urinary blockage



Urinary retention can be sudden and frightening—but it’s treatable with timely care. Clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic provide expert evaluation, immediate relief, and long-term management in a patient-centered, English-friendly environment. Whether you’re visiting Korea or living here long-term, you can feel confident that professional help is just a phone call away. Don’t wait—early care prevents complications and restores comfort.