Have you ever noticed an increase in urinary urgency (urge to pee) or a need to use the bathroom more often when out in cold weather? This phenomenon is called cold diuresis. But what exactly is cold diuresis, and can you prevent it?
What is Cold Diuresis?
Diuresis Definition
Cold diuresis is a condition that involves the kidneys and the production of too much urine. This is a warning sign for your body when it senses the danger of hypothermia. This occurs when our kidneys need to filter increased amounts of substances in our fluids. That fluid turns into urine and creates extra water that needs to be expelled by our bodies.
Consequently, we experience frequent urination when outside in cold temperatures.
Cold-induced diuresis is the body's way of preserving heat as it experiences a drastic temperature change that can result in urinary urgency. Although it is common and harmless, it can be pretty frustrating. Although it may be expected, that doesn't mean you can't do anything about it.
Causes and Types of Diuresis
There are two main types of diuresis: Pressure Diuresis and Osmotic Diuresis.
- Pressure Diuresis: Pressure Diuresis occurs as a consequence of increased pressure on the arteries. This type of diuresis helps the body to maintain a normal range of blood pressure.
- Osmotic Diuresis: Osmotic Diuresis occurs when there are too many unabsorbable substances in the blood. The kidneys filter these substances and remove them along with water, leading to increased urine output.
- Forced Diuresis: is caused by diuretic medications purchased over the counter. Such medications are used when a patient has been trying to lose water weight.
- Patients recovering from kidney failure can be inflicted with Rebound Diuresis.
- There is also Immersion Diuresis: which occurs when the body is submerged in cold water. The cold causes blood vessels to constrict in response. This causes the body temperature to drop and blood pressure to rise.
Body Defense And Symptoms
Our body tries to preserve heat when it feels a drop in temperature and fears contracting hypothermia. Protecting the internal organs is the body’s priority. The body redirects and reduces blood flow from the skin to the body’s center to ensure the vital organs stay warm and protected.
When this happens, there is an increase in blood pressure. More blood is being pumped through a smaller amount of space. The body redirects blood flow, and the kidneys respond by filtering out the excess fluid.
This reduces the volume and lowers blood pressure. An increase in urination is a result of the excess fluid filtering out. Apart from the need to urinate frequently, diuresis symptoms can include:
- Thirst
- Poor or insufficient sleep
- Fatigue
Fatigue results from the loss of electrolytes and essential minerals when urinating frequently.
How To Prevent Cold Diuresis
Cold diuresis will be experienced to some degree by most of us at some time in our lives. While it may be common and not harmful, it isn’t normal if it persists. The good news is you can manage and prevent it. Here are some tips for when your need to use the bathroom increases when it’s cold outside.
Bundle up and Stay Warm: Bundle up in layers if you plan on heading out into the cold. This will help to regulate your body’s temperature and prevent your body from thinking about getting hypothermia.
Breathe: Our bodies enter fight or flight mode when urinary urges arise. This triggers an increase in hormonal adrenaline, amplifying our sensations. Deep diaphragm breathing can counteract that. Breathing helps the body relax, decreasing the adrenaline level and suppressing the urge to urinate.
Consult a Urologist: Seek medical attention and consult a urologist if the urgency and frequency of the urge to urinate are ongoing. Your urologist will assess the pelvic floor and the muscles surrounding it. Then, they will observe your breathing patterns, assess your posture, and devise an individualized treatment plan.
Diagnosis
Unfortunately, there is no way to test for diuresis. Instead, your doctor may assess your symptoms and possibly look for other medical conditions underlying the increased need to urinate.
To help your doctor, list any medications you are taking and what you have been drinking and eating recently. Also, keep a record of how often you have to pee.
Additional Reading: Cold Weather Safety (National Weather Service)
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