Factors Affecting Micturition - Part B

Factors Affecting Micturition

Several physiological effects and disease states can impact the urinary system:

• Congenital Urinary Tract Abnormalities: Conditions present at birth such as polycystic kidney disease or renal agenesis (missing kidneys).

• Polycystic Kidney Disease: Fluid-filled sacs (cysts) form in the kidneys, disrupting their ability to filter blood effectively.

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infections can occur anywhere in the urinary tract including the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys.

• Kidney Stones (Urinary Calculi): These stones can obstruct urine flow and cause significant pain, potentially leading to backflow into the kidneys, which is dangerous.

• Hypertension: High blood pressure can cause vascular damage in the kidneys, impairing their function.

• Diabetes: Elevated blood sugar levels can damage kidneys directly and increase sugar in urine, promoting bacterial growth and UTIs.

• Gout: Uric acid crystals can form, damaging kidney tissue.

• Connective Tissue Disorders: These can lead to scar tissue formation in the kidneys, affecting their function.

• Medications:

  • Diuretics: Increase urination by reducing water reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to more fluid in urine.

  • Cholinergic Medications: Stimulate bladder contraction, increasing urination urgency.

  • CNS Suppressants: Medications like tranquilizers can suppress the neurological reflex to urinate, potentially leading to urinary retention.