Increased Urination After Drinking More Water: Is It Normal? - Urology

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Increased water intake leads to more frequent urination?


Hello doctor, about a week ago, I was advised by my physician to drink 3000 cc of water daily because I usually drink too little, around 700 to 1300 cc.
This week, I have been making an effort to drink water from morning till night.
Although I haven't reached 3000 cc, I am drinking about 2300 to 2600 cc daily.
As a result, I find myself going to the bathroom quite often.
When I go out to an exhibition for about two hours and drink around 600 cc, I feel the urge to urinate.
At home, I also feel the need to rush to the bathroom approximately every hour.
Each time, it feels like I am urinating a lot, and the color is light yellow.
There is no pain, but sometimes I feel like I haven't completely emptied my bladder.
I would like to know if it's okay to suddenly increase my water intake after usually drinking so little.
Does this count as frequent urination, or should I observe this further? Thank you.

N, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/05

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: Drinking plenty of water will naturally result in lighter urine and more frequent urination, as long as each volume is above 200cc.
There should not be any major issues; however, if there is swelling, kidney function tests should be conducted.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/02/05

More Info


Increased urination after significantly increasing your water intake can be a common and normal response of your body. When you transition from drinking a low volume of water (700-1300 cc) to a higher volume (2300-2600 cc), your kidneys will adjust to filter and excrete the excess fluid, leading to more frequent urination. This is a physiological response as your body works to maintain homeostasis and balance its fluid levels.

When you drink more water, your kidneys filter the blood and produce urine to eliminate the excess fluid. The fact that your urine is light yellow indicates proper hydration, as concentrated urine tends to be darker. The sensation of not feeling completely empty after urination can occur, especially if your bladder is adjusting to the increased volume of urine being produced. This feeling may diminish as your body acclimates to the new hydration levels.

It's important to note that while increased urination can be normal, there are a few factors to consider. If you experience any pain during urination, blood in your urine, or other concerning symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, if you find that your increased urination is accompanied by excessive thirst or other unusual symptoms, it may be worth discussing with your doctor, as these could indicate underlying conditions such as diabetes or other metabolic issues.

In terms of your current hydration strategy, aiming for around 3000 cc of water daily is generally considered beneficial for most adults, especially if you have been previously under-hydrated. However, it’s essential to listen to your body. If you feel uncomfortable with the frequency of urination or if it disrupts your daily activities, you might want to adjust your intake slightly. Gradually increasing your water consumption can help your body adapt more comfortably.

Moreover, the sensation of needing to urinate frequently can also be influenced by other factors such as caffeine or alcohol intake, which can act as diuretics, leading to increased urine production. If you consume beverages containing these substances, it may exacerbate your need to urinate.

In conclusion, while your current experience of increased urination after drinking more water is likely a normal adjustment, it’s essential to monitor how you feel and any accompanying symptoms. If you continue to have concerns or if your symptoms change, seeking advice from a healthcare provider would be prudent. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your overall health and hydration needs. Remember, maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, but it should be balanced with comfort and practicality in your daily life.

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