Excessive Sweating and Urination Issues: What You Need to Know

What is the relationship between sweating and urinary issues?

During intense exercise, especially in hot and humid weather, I tend to sweat excessively (with no abnormalities in blood pressure or heart function).
For instance, on a summer day with temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius, after playing basketball for an hour, I feel as if I've been submerged in a pool.
Consequently, I continuously replenish fluids during exercise, consuming at least 1500 cc of water.
After playing, I continue to drink water at home, yet I hardly urinate throughout the night.
When I do, it's only a small amount and not due to urgency.
What should I do in this situation? I've consumed so much water that I'm hesitant to drink more, yet it seems like I'm not excreting it.
Two years ago, my creatinine levels were slightly elevated, but after adjusting my diet, I have consistently re-tested, and my current creatinine level is 0.8.

Xiao Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/26

Dr. Lin Wenxu reply Urology

When sweating is excessive, the volume of urine will decrease (the water intake and water excretion in the body will naturally reach a balance.
If you are concerned, please visit a urology clinic for evaluation and treatment by a physician).

Reply Date: 2016/08/26

More Info

Excessive sweating and urination issues can be concerning, especially when they occur during physical activities like playing basketball in hot weather. The symptoms you describe—profuse sweating during exercise, significant fluid intake, and minimal urination afterward—can be indicative of several underlying physiological responses and conditions.

Firstly, it's important to understand that sweating is a natural mechanism for thermoregulation. When you engage in vigorous physical activity, especially in hot and humid conditions, your body produces sweat to cool itself down. The amount of sweat produced can vary significantly from person to person, influenced by factors such as genetics, fitness level, and acclimatization to heat. In your case, sweating profusely during a one-hour basketball session is not uncommon, especially if you are exerting yourself and the temperature is high.

However, the issue of not urinating despite high fluid intake raises some questions. Normally, when you consume a significant amount of water, your kidneys filter this excess fluid, leading to increased urine production. If you find that you are drinking a lot of water but not urinating much, it could be due to several reasons:
1. Dehydration: Even though you are drinking a lot, if you are sweating excessively, you may still be in a state of dehydration. The body prioritizes maintaining blood volume and pressure, which can lead to reduced urine output. This is particularly relevant if you are losing more fluids through sweat than you are taking in.

2. Kidney Function: While you mentioned that your creatinine levels have returned to normal, it's essential to ensure that your kidneys are functioning properly. If there are any underlying kidney issues, they could affect your ability to excrete urine despite adequate hydration.

3. Hormonal Regulation: The body regulates fluid balance through hormones such as antidiuretic hormone (ADH). In situations of excessive sweating, your body may produce more ADH to conserve water, leading to less urine output. This could be a temporary response to your high fluid loss.

4. Electrolyte Imbalance: Excessive sweating can lead to a loss of electrolytes, which can affect various bodily functions, including kidney function. If your electrolyte levels are off, it could impact your hydration status and urine output.

Given these considerations, here are some recommendations:
- Monitor Hydration: Pay attention to your hydration levels. If you are sweating a lot, consider using electrolyte-replenishing drinks to help maintain your electrolyte balance. This can help your body retain fluids more effectively.

- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Since you have a history of elevated creatinine levels, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend tests to evaluate your kidney function and assess for any potential underlying issues that could be affecting your urination.

- Adjust Exercise Intensity: If you find that your symptoms worsen with high-intensity exercise in hot weather, consider adjusting your workout routine. Incorporating rest periods, staying hydrated, and exercising during cooler parts of the day can help mitigate excessive sweating and fluid loss.

- Keep a Diary: Document your fluid intake, exercise duration, and urination patterns. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider to understand your situation better.

In conclusion, while excessive sweating during exercise is normal, the accompanying issues with urination warrant further investigation. It's crucial to ensure that your kidneys are functioning well and that you are maintaining a proper balance of fluids and electrolytes. Consulting with a healthcare professional will provide you with tailored advice and peace of mind regarding your symptoms.

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