Most people do not know how much control they have over their urinary health at home, at work, or in transit. Across all generations and in all walks of life, it is common to postpone going to the bathroom, not drink enough water, consume excessive amounts of caffeine and sugars, or remain seated for long periods.
However, all of these behaviours can lead to increased pain, urgency, incontinence, or risk of infection based on the daily decisions affecting the urinary tract and changes offering practical ways for everyone to enhance their bladder health.
The impact of delayed bathroom visits
Whether it be during a meeting, travelling or being busy at home, delaying your washroom visits causes the bladder to overstretch beyond its comfortable capacity. It weakens the bladder muscle tissue and interferes with normal signals that tell when they need to go to the bathroom.
A bladder that is not completely empty may leave behind residual urine; this residual urine creates a more optimal environment for bacteria to grow, which, in turn, increases the risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs). Habitually holding onto the urine also creates urgency or loss of bladder control over time.
Dehydration and bladder irritation
Drinking water is necessary for proper bodily functions, including the production of urine. When individuals skip drinking fluids, they also skip going to the bathroom. Likewise, when individuals replace water with caffeinated drinks such as coffee and tea, their urine will be very concentrated and acidic. Furthermore, the consumption of caffeine and artificial sweeteners can cause direct irritation of the bladder.
Concentration of the urine in the bladder due to holding it for a long time leads to irritation, which will increase and cause burning sensation, urgency and a greater chance of developing recurrent infections or the symptoms of an overactive bladder. Drinking on a regular basis will dilute urine and assist in the natural flushing of bacteria out of the body.
The effects of prolonged sitting
Spending so much time at a desk, commuting, or watching television involves sitting, sometimes positioned for long periods, causing issues with the legs, which prevents proper circulation to the lower half of the body, increasing pressure on the bladder and weakening it. This slows blood circulation and increases the risk of experiencing urinary discomfort or leakage.
How to take charge of urinary health
- Minor alterations in everyday living can have a significant positive effect on their well-being when they involve maintaining a healthy urinary bladder.
- Everyday habits like delaying restroom visits will end up stretching the muscles and trapping bacteria. Drinking sufficient amounts of water provides the body the ability to get rid of harmful microbes effectively.
- Taking routine stretching breaks allows for better blood flow to their lower extremities and decreases the amount of pressure to their pelvic area from better circulation.
Taking care of the body while living in a high-energy world is dependent on listening to the body and developing balance in life. Making small changes like drinking enough water throughout the day, using the restroom on time, and taking a walk on a regular basis all contribute to having a healthy bladder.
The more often activities are part of the daily routine, the more likely it will be an enjoyable feeling, good and living a long life with little effect from daily activities.
(The author is a urology specialist at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bengaluru)
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK
