the Risks of Holding Urine: Health Implications and Concerns

Urinary retention

Hello, Doctor: I have been unable to find a job, so I have been scavenging for items to sell, which is very exhausting.
As a result, I lack the energy to shower or brush my teeth.
I have a psychoneurosis, and it has been difficult for employers to hire me! One time, I slept from the previous night until around 2 or 3 PM the next day, not wanting to get out of bed and wanting to rest more.
I ended up sleeping again and had dreams during that time.
After waking up, my mind and emotions were preoccupied with thoughts about engaging in sexual relations with women.
I kept thinking and thinking, and even when I felt the urge to urinate, I didn't go; I just stayed in bed, immersed in those thoughts, which led me to hold my urine for a long time.
Eventually, I realized I couldn't continue like this and went to urinate.
After urinating, I felt the urge to go again shortly after, and during urination and afterward, I experienced pain and a feeling of fullness in my genital area.
Sometimes, even two hours later, I still felt pain and fullness in that area.
This continued for three days (holding urine and thinking about sexual matters).
Now, I no longer feel pain or fullness.
However, because I need to sort through and sell more items, I have been drinking less water, and I feel an urgent need to empty my bladder quickly.
My urine output is low and appears yellow.
The frequency of urination is also low.
When I do feel the urge to urinate (though it's not much), I experience a slight feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen near the genital area, and my mind has a bit of an urge to urinate.
In the evening, after drinking more water with dinner, the frequency of urination increases, but the output is still low, and shortly after urinating, I feel a sensation of residual urine, with a slight urge to go again, knowing there is only a little left.
Now, when I feel the urge to urinate (sometimes, but not always consciously), I experience pain in a certain area of my genitalia.
What kind of long-term effects could this have? Have I already caused damage to my kidneys? Is there a higher chance that I will need dialysis in the future? Please respond, Doctor.
Thank you.
I am really very worried!

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/06/24

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

Stop overthinking! There's no need to torture yourself.
However, if you're still feeling unwell, I recommend visiting a hospital to consult a urologist for an examination.

Reply Date: 2009/06/24

More Info

Holding urine for extended periods can lead to a variety of health issues, particularly affecting the urinary system and overall well-being. Your situation highlights several important concerns regarding urinary retention, bladder health, and potential long-term consequences.

Firstly, chronic urinary retention can lead to bladder dysfunction. The bladder is a muscular organ that stretches to accommodate urine. When you hold urine for too long, it can become overstretched, leading to a condition known as bladder overdistension. This can weaken the bladder muscles over time, resulting in decreased bladder capacity and the inability to fully empty the bladder, which can cause residual urine. This residual urine can become a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).

In your case, you mentioned experiencing pain and a feeling of fullness in the genital area, which could be indicative of bladder irritation or infection. The pain you feel after urination may also suggest that your bladder is not functioning optimally, possibly due to the prolonged periods of holding urine. Additionally, the yellow color of your urine and the sensation of urgency followed by a feeling of incomplete emptying could be signs of dehydration or a urinary tract issue.

Moreover, the psychological aspect of your situation cannot be overlooked. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate urinary symptoms, leading to a cycle where the urge to urinate becomes intertwined with emotional distress. This can further complicate your ability to manage your urinary habits effectively.

As for the potential long-term effects on your kidneys, while occasional holding of urine is unlikely to cause significant harm, chronic retention and the resultant infections can lead to more severe complications, including kidney damage. If bacteria from the bladder ascend to the kidneys, it can result in pyelonephritis, a serious kidney infection that may necessitate hospitalization and could potentially lead to kidney failure if not treated promptly.

To address your concerns about the possibility of needing dialysis in the future, it is essential to understand that while holding urine itself may not directly cause kidney failure, the complications arising from chronic urinary retention and recurrent infections can contribute to kidney damage over time. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical attention to evaluate your urinary health and address any underlying issues.

Here are some recommendations for managing your situation:
1. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough fluids throughout the day. Dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, which may irritate the bladder and exacerbate symptoms.

2. Regular Bathroom Breaks: Try to establish a routine for urinating every few hours, even if you do not feel a strong urge. This can help prevent overdistension of the bladder.

3. Medical Evaluation: It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a urologist, to assess your urinary symptoms. They may recommend tests such as a urinalysis, ultrasound, or urodynamic studies to evaluate bladder function and rule out any infections or other underlying conditions.

4. Mental Health Support: Given your mention of psychological distress, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Addressing anxiety and stress can have a positive impact on your overall health, including urinary function.

5. Avoid Holding Urine: Make a conscious effort to avoid holding your urine for extended periods. This will help maintain bladder health and reduce the risk of complications.

In conclusion, while your current symptoms are concerning, taking proactive steps to manage your urinary health and seeking medical advice can help mitigate potential long-term risks. It is essential to prioritize your health and well-being, both physically and mentally.

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