What does it mean if the abdomen is full of urine-like fluid, and what should be done?

Sep 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
Introduction
In general, the main causes of having excessive fluid in the bladder include drinking too much water, holding urine for prolonged periods, benign prostatic hyperplasia, neurogenic bladder, and urethral stricture. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a qualified hospital. In daily life, one should develop habits of regular water intake and timely urination, avoid prolonged sitting, and engage in appropriate physical activity.

Under normal circumstances, the main causes of a sensation of fluid fullness in the abdomen are excessive water intake, prolonged urine retention, benign prostatic hyperplasia, neurogenic bladder, and urethral stricture. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a qualified hospital. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Excessive Water Intake

Consuming a large amount of water in a short period increases the rate of urine production by the kidneys, leading to a rapid accumulation of urine in the bladder that exceeds its normal capacity. This may cause a sensation of urinary fullness in the abdomen. Symptoms can be relieved by reducing water intake within short periods, drinking smaller amounts more frequently, and avoiding consuming large volumes of water at once.

2. Prolonged Urine Retention

Intentionally delaying urination for extended periods causes continuous bladder expansion and significant urine accumulation, resulting in a feeling of fluid fullness in the abdomen. Developing a habit of regular urination, avoiding prolonged urine retention, and promptly going to the bathroom when feeling the urge to urinate can help prevent this condition.

3. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

In men, an enlarged prostate can compress the urethra, obstructing urine outflow and causing urine to accumulate (urinary retention) in the bladder. Gradual buildup leads to a sensation of fluid in the lower abdomen, often accompanied by difficulty urinating and a weak urinary stream. Under medical guidance, medications such as tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsules, finasteride tablets, or doxazosin mesylate sustained-release tablets may be prescribed. In severe cases, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) may be required.

4. Neurogenic Bladder

Nervous system disorders can impair neural control of the bladder, leading to abnormal bladder contraction and inability to empty properly, resulting in urine retention and a sensation of abdominal fullness. Under medical supervision, medications such as tolterodine tartrate tablets, solifenacin succinate tablets, or oxybutynin hydrochloride sustained-release tablets may be used. In some cases, a cystostomy (bladder drainage surgery) may be necessary.

5. Urethral Stricture

Scarring from urethral injury or infection can narrow the urethral lumen, impeding urine flow and causing urine to accumulate in the bladder, leading to a sensation of abdominal fluid fullness. This is often accompanied by a thin, weak urine stream and straining during urination. Antibiotics such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, levofloxacin tablets, or azithromycin dispersible tablets may be prescribed under medical guidance to prevent infection. Additionally, procedures such as urethral dilation or urethrotomy may be required.

In daily life, it's important to maintain regular hydration habits and a consistent urination schedule; avoid prolonged sitting and engage in moderate physical activity; practice good personal hygiene to prevent urinary tract infections; and undergo regular health check-ups to detect urological conditions early.