Blood pressure measurement errors caused by the behavior of holding urine
After measuring my blood pressure at the hospital, the nurse said my blood pressure was slightly high. I mentioned that I had been holding my urine, and the nurse responded that this might have an impact. What is the blood pressure measurement error caused by holding urine?
Doctor's answer (1)
Urinary retention may have a certain impact on blood pressure measurement results.
Retaining urine can cause palpitations and nervous tension; this reactive nervous tension leads to elevated blood pressure, resulting in higher measured blood pressure values. Additionally, urine remaining in the bladder increases bladder pressure, which affects intra-abdominal pressure. Elevated intra-abdominal pressure can also cause a relative increase in blood pressure.
In a state of urinary retention, systolic pressure (the higher number) and diastolic pressure (the lower number) can increase by approximately 5-10 mmHg and 2-4 mmHg respectively, and in some cases, the increase may be even greater. This effect varies between individuals and is influenced by multiple factors; some people may be more sensitive to it.
To obtain accurate blood pressure measurements, it is recommended to avoid urinary retention before measuring blood pressure and ensure the bladder is empty. At the same time, remaining relaxed and calm during blood pressure measurement, and avoiding other factors that may cause blood pressure fluctuations, such as emotional stress and vigorous exercise, are also key to improving the accuracy of blood pressure measurements.
