Does holding urine have a significant impact on cystitis?
Disease description:
I often don't feel the urge to use the bathroom and frequently hold in my urine, so I'm worried this might affect my health. Does holding urine significantly increase the risk of cystitis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Mingchuan
Holding urine has a significant impact on cystitis, and long-term urine retention may lead to the development of cystitis. Normally, the bladder wall of a healthy individual can only withstand a limited amount of pressure. The bladder lining has a self-protective mechanism that prevents invasion. However, when there is excessive urine in the bladder, causing pressure beyond what the bladder wall can normally tolerate, the bladder lining may become damaged. This damage allows bacteria to invade, potentially leading to cystitis.
