Overactive bladder (OAB) is characterized by involuntary bladder contractions, causing sudden, frequent, and difficult-to-control urges to urinate. Individuals with OAB may experience frequent daytime and nighttime urination, and occasionally urinary incontinence. This condition often recurs, affecting daily activities and quality of life.

According to master, doctor Le Minh Hung, from the Urology - Andrology Department at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, individuals with overactive bladder often experience more severe and frequent symptoms during cold weather. This is because lower temperatures tend to make the muscles surrounding the bladder tense and more sensitive, leading to sudden contractions. Patients commonly report urgent, frequent, or difficult-to-control urination.

Doctor Hung examining a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

In winter, the body sweats less, so excess water is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. Low temperatures also activate the cold diuresis reflex, causing peripheral blood vessels to constrict and redirect blood to internal organs, including the kidneys. This increased blood flow intensifies the filtration and urine production process, leading to the bladder filling more quickly.

Doctor Hung notes that, in addition to physiological factors, winter lifestyle habits also contribute to worsening symptoms. Many people drink water inconsistently, are less active, limit outdoor activities, and tend to hold their urine to avoid the cold. These habits can irritate the bladder and trigger sudden contractions, increasing the risk of urinary urgency and leakage.

Managing overactive bladder in cold weather involves medical treatment combined with lifestyle adjustments. Patients should drink sufficient water throughout the day, avoiding excessive intake at once. Keeping the body warm, especially the lower abdomen and feet, is also beneficial. A balanced diet rich in green vegetables, fruits, and antioxidant-rich foods helps maintain urinary tract health and reduces infection risk. It is advisable to limit bladder-irritating beverages such as: coffee, tea, and alcohol. Gentle physical activities like walking or pelvic floor exercises can strengthen the bladder, but prolonged outdoor activity in cold weather should be avoided.

Patients should monitor their symptoms and undergo regular check-ups at a Urology - Andrology specialist to effectively manage overactive bladder. If persistent urinary urgency, leakage, or frequent daytime or nighttime urination occurs, individuals should seek medical consultation and appropriate treatment to avoid impacts on their quality of life.

Thu Giang