Retaining urine can lead to health issues such as urinary tract infections, bladder expansion, and the formation of kidney stones.
Were you aware that delaying urination for extended periods can lead to numerous health complications? Many individuals avoid using public toilets or restroom facilities in public areas due to hygiene concerns. Consequently, they often hold their urine for prolonged periods. This behavior can significantly intensify the urge to urinate upon returning home. While there are situations necessitating the holding of urine, excessive delay can result in health problems such as urinary tract infections, bladder distension, and the formation of kidney stones.
The consequences of delaying urination
Pain
Holding urine for extended periods can lead to discomfort in the bladder and kidneys. Additionally, you may experience pain during urination. This discomfort arises because the muscles are forced to work for an extended duration, resulting in muscular pain.
Incontinence
Another consequence of delaying urination is the weakening of pelvic muscles. This can lead to incontinence, where you lose control over your bladder function.
Infection of the Urinary Tract
Prolonged retention of urine can elevate the risk of bacterial proliferation, potentially leading to a urinary tract infection as the bacteria spread within the urinary tract. Symptoms of a urinary tract infection may include blood in the urine, a burning sensation while urinating, frequent and urgent need to urinate, dark or foul-smelling urine, and discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region. Individuals who consume inadequate amounts of water are at a higher susceptibility to this health condition.
Kidney Stones
Extended periods of urine retention can also predispose you to the formation of kidney stones. This can lead to significant pain, potentially necessitating surgical intervention for stone removal. Individuals who consume insufficient amounts of water are at an increased risk of developing kidney stones.
Bladder Stretching
Continuously holding in urine can stretch your bladder, making it challenging for the bladder to contract back to its original size. This can lead to difficulty in releasing urine. In rare instances, there is a risk of bladder rupture due to prolonged urine retention.
How to Manage Urges to Urinate When Necessary
Here are some strategies you can employ when you find yourself needing to hold in your urine:
- Distract yourself by engaging in an activity that captures your attention, such as listening to music or focusing on a task.
- If you’re seated, try to stay in that position, as shifting positions may increase discomfort.
- Keep warm, as cold temperatures can exacerbate the urge to urinate.
Takeaway
While holding in urine is generally not dangerous, it’s important to avoid making it a regular practice. This is particularly crucial if you have conditions such as kidney disorders, urinary retention, or an enlarged prostate, as it can heighten the risk of infection. Pregnant women, who are already more susceptible to urinary tract infections, should especially refrain from holding in urine. However, if you have an overactive bladder, you may consider seeking training to better control urination.