Did you know holding in your urine for too long can have many health complications? Many people refrain from urinating in public toilets or using washrooms in public places. They tend to hold their urine for a long time due to hygiene issues. As a result, the urge to rush to the bathroom after reaching home increases by two-fold. There are times when you need to hold in urine, but when you overdo this, you can have health issues like urinary tract infections, bladder stretching, and kidney stones.
Side Effects Of Holding In Urine
Pain
People may experience pain in their bladder and kidneys when holding urine for too long. Moreover, you may also feel pain while urinating. This is because holding in urine can cause pain in your muscles as they have to work for a longer time.
Incontinence
Another side effect of holding in urine is that it can cause your pelvic muscles to become weaker. This results in incontinence, which means you will lose bladder control.
Also Read: What Does The Smell of Urine Tell About The Overall Health?
Urinary Tract Infection
Holding in urine for a long time can also increase the chances of bacteria multiplying. This can eventually result in urinary tract infection as the bacteria spreads through your urinary tract. Some of the urinary tract symptoms are blood in urine, burning sensation during urination, persistent need to urinate, dark urine, smelly urine, pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis region, etc. People who drink less water are more prone to this health condition.
Kidney Stones
You may also develop kidney stones when you hold in urine for an extended time. It can result in pain, and you may even need surgery to remove the stones. The chances of developing stones increases in people who drink less water.
Also Read: When To Consider Surgery For Kidney Stones, Doctor Suggests
Bladder Stretching
Your bladder can stretch when you constantly hold in urine. As a result, it becomes difficult for your bladder to contract and come to its previous size. In addition, you will also have difficulty releasing urine. There are rare chances that your bladder may burst due to holding in urine for an extended time.
What To Do When You Really Need To Hold In Urine
- You might need to hold in your urination in some situations. Some of the measures that you may take are as follows:
- You should try distracting your mind by engaging in an activity that will keep your brain occupied or even listening to music.
- If you are sitting, you should remain seated.
- Try to keep yourself warm as the urge to urinate increases with cold.
Takeaway
Holding in your urine is not dangerous, but you should refrain from doing so regularly. You should avoid holding in urine, especially if you have kidney disorders, urinary retention, enlarged prostate, etc, as it can increase the chances of infection. Moreover, pregnant ladies should strictly avoid holding in urine as they are already at risk of urinary tract infections. However, you may get training to control your urine if you have an overactive bladder.
