It's getting colder, so I have to urinate more often... Why I shouldn't hold it in.

There may be people who have been going to the bathroom more frequently recently.

 

In winter, the amount of fluid lost through sweat decreases, increasing the volume of urine that must be expelled, leading to a more frequent urge to urinate. Cold weather can also stimulate the detrusor muscle, which contracts the bladder, making the urge to urinate even stronger. In such cases, some people hold their urine because going to the restroom is a hassle, but this is not good for their health and can lead to cystitis.

 

Cystitis is a disease in which inflammation occurs in the bladder due to a bacterial infection.

 

Causes include the invasion of E. coli into the bladder, stress, and weakened immunity, but it can also occur when urine is frequently held in. Urine contains many waste products and harmful substances filtered by the kidneys. If urine remains in the bladder for a long time, bacteria multiply in the urethra, causing inflammation, which can lead to cystitis if it persists. In particular, if you urinate frequently—about 15 to 20 times a day—feel a dull ache in the lower abdomen when urinating, and do not feel relieved even after urinating, you should suspect cystitis.

If cystitis continues to recur, it can develop into chronic cystitis called 'interstitial cystitis.' The symptoms of interstitial cystitis include severe bladder pain when the bladder fills with urine, which subsides after urination.

 

In particular, when one cannot go to the restroom due to having to sit for long periods for work or study, symptoms of pain appear even if urine is held in for only a short time. Pain may be felt in the upper abdomen, lower back, perineum, and vagina, and frequent urination and nocturia may also occur. Blood may also be mixed in the urine.

 

Cystitis and interstitial cystitis are treated with medication such as antibiotics, behavioral therapy, dietary adjustments, and physical therapy. If these treatments are ineffective or severe pain persists, surgery may be necessary. Furthermore, since cystitis frequently recurs, it is important to prevent it through lifestyle improvements. It is advisable to break the habit of holding urine for extended periods and to urinate 4 to 6 times a day. Additionally, drink plenty of water—about 6 to 8 glasses a day—to flush out bacteria from the body. When wiping with toilet paper after urinating or defecating, always wipe from front to back. Above all, if bladder pain is severe, you must consult a specialist to receive accurate treatment and diagnosis.

 

Cystitis in women is frequently caused by sexual intercourse. This is because bacteria residing in the vagina can migrate to the urethral opening during sexual intercourse and cause infection. It is important to keep the genitals clean before and after sexual intercourse, and it is advisable to urinate and empty the bladder afterward.

 

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Cystitis is habitual

It seems like there are many cases where it occurs.

 

I'm fine during the day, though.

 

When sleeping at night

I tend to be patient, but I guess I absolutely shouldn't hold back.