retention

In general, from the Latin, it means "holding back" The word is used in Medicine for constipation, an impaction of the large intestine by feces. It also refers to the closure of the bladder resulting in an awful bursting pain, because not a drop of urine will come out. That can happen by taking in too many liquids, ignoring the need to piss for hours, and having the full bladder rest on the urethra thus closing it down or having an enlarged prostate pressing on the same tube that empties the bladder. Many drugs, such as cough syrup and some antidepressants, cause temporary retention. Recreational drugs such as ecstasy, morphine, codeine and heroin and methadone may close down the bladder, sometimes for 24 hours. Surgery near the bladder area may upset the local nerves and may lead to retention of urine for 24 to 48 hours or more.