What does this mean?

Question

My fiance has 2 herniated discs in his lower back (L4-5, L5-S1). He had an MRI about 10 days ago and there was nerve impingement, but no evidence of Cauda Equina Syndrome (thank god). He just admitted to me this evening that since yesterday, he has had to force himself to urinate. He said it hardly comes out and he really has to push. It takes him about 45-60 seconds to even get the stream started. I am worried this is because of his back, as he has been having increased pain these past 2 days. The surgeon can't see him for another 3 weeks! Does this sound like a problem that could be caused by disk/nerve injury? Any info would be great! Thanks

He is on Methadone for long term pain, but he hardly ever takes them (he hates them). He also has 5mg oxycodone (no tylenol in it). Other then that it's, Flexeril and Motrin. So does the back/nerve injuries only really cause the loss of bladder control (when it comes to the issue of the bladder)?

Answer 1

It sounds like nerve impingement at work. The urinary difficulty (dysuria) that he's experiencing is something that needs to be reported to his primary care doctor ASAP as well as the increase in pain. He needs to report to his doctor exactly what he told you. Keep a record of these events. We rate pain on a zero to 10 scale with zero being no pain and 10 being the worst pain you've ever had. Have him rate his. When he calls his doctor's office, he should report his pain rating as well. He may be worked into the doctor's schedule that same day but he must stress that he's in pain. I wish you both the best and hope this all turns out well.

Answer 2

Yes, it could be caused by back/nerve problem. You should see if he can get in to his doctor. Don't let it go for another 3 weeks. My dad suffered many years with back problems/surgeries (herniated disc) and the doctors would always ask him if he had trouble going to the bathroom. He never really did, but they always asked. However, this could also be due to an enlarged prostate. Either way consult your doctor. Best wishes!

Answer 3

Hi Lauren, The best thing to do,specially with pain and problems with urinateing is get him to a doctor before something terrible happens.never mess around with your health. A Friend.

Clowmy

Answer 4

It could be a lots of things. Some medications cause swelling in the prostate which could cause hesitancy upon urination. I don't know what medications your husband is on, but I assume he is taking pain medication to relieve the back pain.It could also be a kidney stone. I would get my husband to our regular Dr, and still see the surgon in 3 weeks about his back.

Answer 5

Do you mean that you meant the word "mean" in its original meaning or are you too mean to meet my mean standards? Oh, I'm going to start moaning about your mixing up all those m-words...

Answer 6

He really should see a doctor, even if the surgeon can't see him yet. He needs to be able to pee - and he probably needs to see a urologist. Tell him to see his family doctor, especially if there is fever or pain.

Answer 7

i think the problem is due 2 backpain itself,u said its b/n L4-S1.
generally nerves supplying bladder come fromL1-L4 n S1-S3.

Answer 8

You didn't say what kind of pain meds he is on. Any opiates codiene. Oxecodon oxycondon Percocet Percodon etc are bad news

Answer 9

if hes in dieing pain the dr will see him!! or just go to the er cause thats not a regular way to pee!!

Answer 10

i would call the doctor but i don't think his back would cause a peeing problem. tell him to0 drink like 32 oz of cranberry juice that should make him want to pee. let me know if it works, [e-mail]