Holding urine for too long increases the risk of kidney stones, UTIs, and bladder damage. Learn what doctors say about this common habit and how to protect your kidney health.
Does Holding Urine Cause Kidney Stones? What Doctors Want You to Know
When people are busy or on the road, they often put off going to the restroom. But doing this all the time can hurt your urinary system. Doctors say that holding in your pee for too long raises the chance of kidney stones and other health problems.
Why it is bad to hold your urine
Calcium, oxalate, and uric acid are some of the waste materials that urine transports. When you hold onto your urine, these things stay in your bladder and kidneys for longer. This lets crystals develop, which can then turn into kidney stones.
What Doctors Say
- Kidney stone risk: Holding your pee for a long time increases your risk of getting kidney stones, especially if you are prone to them.
- Risk of UTIs: When urine sits still, it lets bacteria grow, which can cause urinary tract infections.
- Bladder issues: Holding in urine too often might strain the bladder and make its muscles weaker.
- Rare problems: Bladder rupture might happen in very bad situations.
Signs of Stones in the Kidneys
If you often hold in your urine and have the following symptoms, visit a doctor:
- Sharp discomfort in the side or lower back
- Urine with blood in it
- Having to pee a lot
- Feeling sick or throwing up
Good habits to keep your kidneys healthy
- To make pee less concentrated, drink 2 to 3 liters of water per day.
- You should empty your bladder every three to four hours.
- Limit foods high in salt, sugar, and processed meals that might cause stones to form.
- Include fruits with a lot of citrate, including oranges and lemons, in your diet.
- If you have a family history of kidney stones, talk to your doctor.
Important Point
Holding your urine for a short time may not hurt you. But doing it all the time raises the risk of kidney stones, infections, and bladder issues. Pay attention to your body and pee when you need to. Taking care of your kidneys is easy yet very important.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns about your health.
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