Pro Tip on Keeping a Bladder Diary Using a Coffee Cup
Introduction
Hello, I'm a urologist specializing in urinary issues. I care for the urinary system, including the prostate, bladder, kidney, and the process of urine production, storage, and excretion.
Many people believe that holding in urine can lead to illness. However, this is a misconception. While it's generally not harmful to hold a moderate amount of urine, excessive retention can be problematic. Holding more than 500-600cc can cause issues. However, it's equally incorrect to rush to the bathroom immediately upon feeling the urge to urinate.
What Are the Good Urination Habits?
When advising patients to hold their urine until it reaches a certain amount, they often ask how many hours they should hold. The focus should be on volume rather than time. A suitable amount to urinate at once is approximately 250-300cc, or 8-12 ounces, small to medium coffee cup.
Aim for a Balanced Number of Bathroom Visits
Aim for 5-6 times to visit the bathroom a day, totaling around 50 ounces per day. This is considered a normal range. Nocturia, or frequent nighttime urination, should be avoided.
The bladder functions like a balloon. It can only be emptied efficiently when filled with an appropriate amount of urine. If you urinate prematurely when your bladder isn't full enough, the urine stream may be weak, and you might strain during urination. This can lead to residual urine and post-void dribbling.
Risks of Holding Urine Too Long
Also, holding in urine for extended periods or in excessive amounts can lead to several health problems, particularly affecting the bladder. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) could be one of the common issues. When urine is held for too long, bacteria can multiply, increasing the risk of UTIs. UTIs can cause pain, burning during urination, and fever.
The bladder is indeed a muscular organ that can expand and contract like a balloon. When you hold in your urine for extended periods, the bladder stretches to accommodate the increasing volume.
Impact on Bladder Muscles
However, the issue isn't just about the bladder stretching. The muscles that control the bladder, including the internal and external sphincters, can also become weakened or fatigued from prolonged holding. This can make it more difficult for the bladder to empty completely, leading to residual urine and potential complications.
Knowing the right time and amount to urinate is the first step to keeping your bladder healthy.
How to Use a Bladder Diary to Monitor Urinary Incontinence
To check if you are urinating properly and to what extent you may have urinary incontinence, it is strongly recommended to keep a bladder diary. A bladder diary is a valuable tool for tracking urination patterns and identifying potential issues. It can help:
1. Identifying Urinary Problems
By recording the frequency, urgency, and amount of urine you produce, you can notice any patterns or irregularities that might indicate a bladder issue.
2. Monitoring Treatment Progress
If you're undergoing treatment for a bladder condition, a diary can help you see how effective it is.
3. Communicating with Your Doctor
A diary can provide your doctor with valuable information to help them diagnose and treat your condition.
What to Include in a Bladder Diary
Typically, a bladder diary includes:
Date and time of each urination
Amount of urine (measured in ounces, milliliters, or using a measuring cup or device)
Any leakage or accidents
Symptoms such as urgency, frequency, or pain
Often, when I inquire about urine volume during outpatient visits, patients provide inaccurate estimates and state that their urine volume appears normal. Objective records, such as a bladder diary, are crucial for accurate assessment. It's essential to note the time, frequency, and volume of each urination.
How to Make a Measuring Cup with a Coffee Cup
Some patients express difficulty in obtaining a measuring cup prior to a clinic visit. However, a readily available coffee cup can be used to measure urine volume effectively.
1. Measuring with a Standard Coffee Cup
A standard Starbucks short paper cup holds approximately 8 ounces, while a tall cup holds 12 ounces. For smaller measurements, consider using smaller paper cups of 3 or 5 ounces.
2. Marking Measurements on the Cup
To create a measuring cup, fill a smaller paper cup with water, pour it into a larger cup, and mark the level with a marker. Repeat this process to create markings at regular 3 oz intervals. Keep several measuring cups at home and work to record your urination regularly.
Modern Tools for Tracking Bladder Health
Modern technology offers convenient options for bladder diaries, such as smartphone memos or dedicated apps. These tools can help you track your urination patterns effectively and provide valuable data for your doctor.
Conclusion
Urinary incontinence can be caused by various factors, including physical illnesses, hormonal imbalances, or other underlying conditions. Consulting a urologist can help identify the cause and provide appropriate treatment. Don't hesitate to seek professional advice if you're experiencing urinary issues.
Say goodbye to the paper diary!
Use the Bladder Diary app- produP!
It's an easy and accurate way to track your bladder health.
