Why Do People Need Catheters?

People need catheters primarily to drain urine from the bladder when they are unable to do so naturally. This can be due to various medical conditions and circumstances.

Here's a breakdown of the common reasons:

• Urinary Retention: This is the inability to empty the bladder completely. Reasons for urinary retention include:

  • Blockage of the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body). This blockage can be caused by:
    • An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH)
    • Urethral strictures (narrowing of the urethra)
    • Bladder stones
  • Nerve damage affecting bladder control due to conditions such as:
    • Spinal cord injury
    • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
    • Diabetes
  • Certain medications

• Urinary Incontinence: While less common as a primary reason for long-term catheter use, catheters can be used to manage incontinence in certain situations, such as:

  • When skin breakdown is a concern due to constant wetness.
  • When other incontinence management methods have failed.
  • In individuals with severe cognitive or physical impairments where other methods are impractical.

• Post-Surgery: Catheters are frequently used after surgery, especially surgeries involving the urinary tract, abdomen, or spine, to allow for bladder healing and monitoring of urine output.

• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can necessitate catheter use, including:

  • Severe illness or weakness that makes it difficult to use the toilet.
  • Coma or unconsciousness.

• Monitoring Urine Output: In critical care settings, catheters are essential for accurately monitoring urine output as an indicator of kidney function and overall fluid balance.

Types of Catheters:

There are several types of urinary catheters:

• Indwelling Catheters (Foley Catheters): These catheters remain in the bladder for an extended period and are held in place by a small balloon inflated inside the bladder.
• Intermittent Catheters: These catheters are inserted several times a day to drain the bladder and then removed. This is often a preferred method for individuals with chronic urinary retention, as it can reduce the risk of infection associated with indwelling catheters.
• External Catheters (Condom Catheters): These catheters are used for men and fit over the penis like a condom to collect urine.

In summary, people need catheters to manage urinary retention, urinary incontinence in specific circumstances, after surgery, for certain medical conditions, and to monitor urine output when natural bladder emptying is not possible or practical. The specific type of catheter used depends on the individual's needs and medical condition.