An 85-year-old man is unable to urinate due to prostate issues—what could be the cause and how should it be managed?

Generally, urinary retention in an 85-year-old man may be related to factors such as bladder spasms, urethritis, cystitis, urethral stones, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement). Patients should seek timely medical evaluation at a reputable hospital and receive appropriate treatment based on the underlying cause. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Bladder Spasms

If the bladder is stimulated by cold air or other external factors, bladder spasms may occur, leading to difficulty urinating or inability to urinate. Some patients may also experience symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, or pain during urination. In such cases, patients should keep warm, pay attention to their diet, and avoid spicy or irritating foods.

2. Urethritis

Urethritis is usually caused by poor hygiene or bacterial infection. When urethritis is present, it may lead to congestion and swelling of the urethral mucosa, resulting in urethral narrowing and subsequent difficulty urinating or complete urinary retention. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as ciprofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, or azithromycin capsules for treatment.

3. Cystitis

Cystitis is typically an inflammatory condition of the bladder caused by bacterial infection. Inflammation can trigger abnormal bladder contractions, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination and urgency. Some patients may also develop urinary retention. Under a doctor's supervision, treatment options include amoxicillin tablets, cefuroxime sodium for injection, or minocycline hydrochloride capsules.

4. Urethral Stones

Urethral stones are mineral deposits that form within the urethra, often from precipitated substances in the urine. These stones may cause urethral narrowing or blockage, impairing normal urine flow and resulting in urinary retention. Some patients may also experience redness, swelling of the urethra, or hematuria (blood in urine). With medical guidance, medications such as celecoxib capsules, raceanisodamine tablets, or lithiasis-relieving granules may be used. For larger stones, surgical intervention such as urethrotomy (incision at the external urethral opening) at a qualified hospital may be necessary.

5. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is a common condition in aging men. As the prostate enlarges with age, it may compress the urethra, causing difficulty urinating, along with symptoms such as frequency, urgency, and incomplete voiding. Under medical supervision, patients may take medications such as finasteride tablets, tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsules, or phenoxybenzamine hydrochloride tablets. Alternatively, surgical treatment via transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) can be performed at a正规 hospital.

In daily life, patients should avoid staying up late and excessive alcohol consumption. Moderate outdoor physical activities such as tai chi, jogging, or cycling may also help improve symptoms.