Excessive Urination: Is Cold Weather the Cause? - Urology

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Is there a problem with the kidneys?


I don't have any significant discomfort, except that in the past couple of days, I've noticed an increase in both the frequency and volume of urination (excessive).
I do not have diabetes (confirmed), and my health check last September was completely normal (urine protein was normal, creatinine was 0.84).
Could this be caused by the cold weather? (That's what everyone is saying.) However, the urine output is indeed excessive.

zero point zero, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/23

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, cold weather can lead to increased urination.
If there are no issues found during the health examination, then the kidneys should be functioning properly.
If this persists, it is advisable to undergo further testing, such as urodynamic studies.
If you have any unclear points, feel free to ask again so we can discuss and research further.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, who cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2016/01/23

More Info


Excessive urination, or polyuria, can be influenced by a variety of factors, including fluid intake, medications, and underlying medical conditions. While cold weather itself is not a direct cause of increased urination, it can indirectly affect how your body responds to hydration and temperature regulation.

In colder temperatures, people often tend to drink less water, which might lead to concentrated urine. However, if you are experiencing an increase in urination frequency and volume, it is essential to consider other potential causes. For instance, conditions such as diabetes mellitus (even if you have ruled it out), diabetes insipidus, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and certain medications can lead to increased urination.
Interestingly, cold weather can cause the body to react in ways that might lead to increased urination. When exposed to cold, the body may constrict blood vessels to conserve heat, which can increase blood pressure. The kidneys may respond by filtering out more fluid, leading to increased urine production. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as "cold diuresis."
Moreover, if you are engaging in activities that require you to be outside in the cold, your body may be losing water through respiration and perspiration, even if you do not feel thirsty. This can lead to a compensatory increase in urination as your body tries to maintain fluid balance.

It is also worth noting that psychological factors can play a role in urination frequency. If you are anxious or stressed about the cold weather or any other life circumstances, this can sometimes manifest as increased urination.

Given that you mentioned your recent increase in urination is not accompanied by any other symptoms and that you have had normal health check-ups, it may not be a cause for immediate concern. However, if this pattern continues or if you start experiencing other symptoms such as pain, burning during urination, or changes in the color or smell of your urine, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In summary, while cold weather may not directly cause excessive urination, it can influence bodily responses that may lead to increased urine output. If you are concerned about your symptoms or if they persist, seeking a medical opinion would be a prudent step to rule out any underlying conditions.

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