During my years working in nephrology, I cared for many patients with kidney disease. One particular case has stayed with me over the years because it reminded me how easily an important condition can be overlooked.
The patient was a 58-year-old man who had been living with diabetes for four years. He was admitted to the hospital because his kidney function had suddenly worsened. At first, many people assumed that his diabetes had rapidly damaged his kidneys.
However, further evaluation told a different story.
He was found to have severe urinary retention caused by an enlarged prostate. Surprisingly, he had experienced very few noticeable urinary symptoms. After a urinary catheter was placed to relieve the obstruction, part of his kidney function recovered.
Although not all patients have the same cause or outcome, this experience reminded me that kidney function can sometimes decline because urine is unable to drain properly from the bladder. When the obstruction is relieved early, kidney function may improve, at least in part.
Why Can This Happen?
As we age, benign enlargement of the prostate becomes increasingly common in men. The obstruction often develops gradually, allowing the bladder to compensate for a long time.
For some individuals living with diabetes, bladder sensation and bladder emptying may also be affected. Because symptoms can be subtle or develop slowly, urinary retention may go unnoticed until complications occur.
This is why changes in urinary habits should never be ignored.
Pay Attention to These Warning Signs
Consider discussing your symptoms with a qualified healthcare professional if you notice:
- Frequent nighttime urination
- A weak urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- A feeling that the bladder does not empty completely
- Increasing urinary frequency or urgency
- Persistent changes in urination
These symptoms do not necessarily indicate kidney disease, but they deserve appropriate medical evaluation.
My Clinical Reflection
Throughout my clinical career, I have learned that some of the most important health problems are not always the ones that cause the strongest symptoms.
Early awareness, regular health checkups, and timely medical evaluation can help identify problems before they become more serious. For people living with diabetes, paying attention to bladder health is just as important as monitoring blood sugar.
Today, as a California Licensed Acupuncturist, I focus on supporting patients through acupuncture and an integrative approach to health. Depending on an individual’s condition, acupuncture may be used as part of a comprehensive care plan to support urinary and pelvic health, improve overall well-being, and enhance quality of life. Persistent urinary symptoms, however, should always be evaluated by a qualified licensed healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause.
This article is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dr. Su is a California Licensed Acupuncturist who shares health education based on professional training and previous clinical experience in nephrology. The information presented does not constitute medical advice or establish a physician–patient relationship. If you have urinary symptoms, changes in kidney function, or other health concerns, please consult your primary care physician, urologist, nephrologist, or another qualified licensed healthcare professional. Acupuncture is a complementary therapy and should not replace appropriate medical evaluation or treatment.