When nature calls, ignoring it for the sake of convenience might seem harmless. But experts reveal that this habit can actually pose significant risks to your health.
You might think it’s no big deal to hold in your pee during a meeting or a movie. Occasionally, this is true. However, if this becomes habitual, it could lead to serious health issues, according to Dr. Jason Kim, a urology expert from the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University.
The process of urination involves a complex neurological system, explained Kim. Your kidneys produce urine, which then travels down ureters to the bladder. Once the bladder is around half full, it sends a signal to your brain indicating it’s time for a bathroom visit. At a suitable time, your brain signals your bladder to release, explained Dr. Kim.
Dr. David Shusterman from NY Urology mentioned that our bodies evolved to hold pee to avoid leaving scent trails for predators. However, modern life has introduced new reasons to let go promptly. One significant risk of holding your urine is the increased chance of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt from Orlando Health highlighted that holding urine can create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing UTI risk. Peeing after activities like sex can help flush out potential bacterial invaders.
Aside from UTIs, constantly delaying urination can weaken bladder muscles, making it hard to fully empty the bladder. This can lead to more retained urine and, subsequently, more infections, forming a vicious cycle.
Interestingly, professions like nursing and teaching often face these issues due to their demanding schedules, commented Kim. Chronic behavior of ignoring bodily cues can eventually diminish these signals.
In extreme cases, urine retention can backflow to the kidneys, risking infections, kidney damage, or hydronephrosis, which is kidney swelling from urine buildup.
For generally healthy people, sporadically holding urine isn’t a major concern. However, habitual neglect can stress the bladder and kidneys. It’s especially risky for individuals who struggle with infections or have specific health conditions such as neurogenic bladder, kidney disorders, or during pregnancy due to increased UTI risks.
Shusterman advised that those in environments exposing them to toxins like cigarettes or gasoline should frequently urinate to minimize bladder cancer risks.
If frequent and urgent urination is problematic, it might be a sign of conditions like overactive bladder, diabetes, or a UTI. Consulting a specialist may help tackle these with targeted exercises.
Despite the understandable discomfort with public bathrooms, Brahmbhatt suggests a practical approach: carry disinfecting wipes or a travel seat cover to ease concerns, as answering nature’s call on time benefits your health.
Listening to your body’s signals is key to maintaining urinary health. While occasional delay isn’t alarming for most, making it a habit can bring unnecessary health risks. Prioritize your well-being by attending to nature’s call when needed.
Source: Yahoo
