I leak urine all the time: what should I know?

A constant dribble may happen when the bladder cannot empty fully and overflow escapes. Difficulty starting the stream, a weak stream, straining, or a feeling of incomplete emptying can point toward blockage, including benign prostatic hyperplasia in people with a prostate. Infection may cause leakage alongside burning, urgency, fever, or pelvic discomfort. Diabetes can increase urine production and affect bladder nerves. Reduced mobility or dementia can make reaching or recognising the need for a toilet harder. Nerve problems affecting the lower spine can change bladder and bowel control.

Assessment may include questions about the stream, sensation, bowel function, operations, pregnancy history, and medicines. A clinician may examine you, test urine, and check whether urine remains in the bladder after you try to empty it.

Arrange a GP appointment promptly and explain that leakage is continuous, rather than only occurring with a cough or sudden urge. Note your urine volume, stream, pain, fever, thirst, bowel changes, and medicines. Do not deliberately stop drinking, because dehydration can worsen dizziness and irritate the urinary system. Keep the skin clean and dry, change pads or clothing when damp, and use a barrier product if recommended. Avoid taking leftover antibiotics or bladder medicines without advice.

Seek urgent care if you cannot pass urine, have severe lower abdominal pain or swelling, fever with side or back pain, blood in the urine, vomiting, or rapidly worsening illness. Go to emergency care for new leg weakness, numbness around the saddle area, or new loss of bowel control with bladder leakage, because these can indicate a serious nerve problem.

Could my bladder be retaining urine? Do I need urine testing or a scan after emptying? Could my stream, medicines, bowel function, diabetes, or nerves explain the continuous leakage?