Holding it in every once in a while is no big deal. But if you do it regularly, it could have serious consequences for your body and mind.
Anesthesiologist and health communicator David Callejo warns about what really happens when we delay our trips to the bathroom.
Increases the risk of urinary tract infections
When you hold your pee too long, the urine stays in the bladder for extended periods, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
This significantly raises the risk of painful UTIs, especially in women.
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Bacteria love stagnant urine
David Callejo describes it vividly that retained urine is like a spa for bacteria.
The longer the urine stays, the more chance bacteria have to multiply and cause infections.
Can weaken your bladder muscles
The bladder works like a balloon - when it’s constantly overfilled, it loses its ability to contract properly.
Over time, this can lead to urological complications and decreased efficiency in bladder emptying.
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Makes it harder to fully empty the bladder
A bladder that gets used to being overstretched may struggle to return to its normal function.
That means you might not fully empty it, even when you finally make it to the toilet.
Affects your concentration
A full bladder can mess with your brain.
David Callejo cites studies showing that the urgent need to pee diverts your attention and cognitive energy, making it harder to concentrate and remember things.
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Impairs mental performance
That pressing urge to pee? It’s not just uncomfortable - it can actually impair your mental performance.
Whether at school or work, needing to go can seriously affect your focus and output.
May cause fever and kidney issues
Untreated urinary infections caused by retained urine can escalate.
In severe cases, it can lead to fever or even reach the kidneys, causing more serious health complications.
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Normal peeing frequency is every 3–4 hours
According to David Callejo, most people should urinate every three to four hours.
Of course, hydration levels and diet can affect this, but constantly going much more or much less could signal a problem.
Needing to pee every hour might be a warning sign
If you're running to the bathroom every hour, it could be more than just high water intake.
David Callejo notes that this may be a sign of an overactive bladder - a condition that needs medical attention.
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We need to take kids’ toilet needs seriously
Many teachers assume students ask to go to the bathroom just to escape the classroom.
But David Callejo warns that strict toilet rules can be harmful and need to be reconsidered from a health perspective.
This article is based on information from Vanitatis.elconfidencial.com.