Holding Urine and Bowel Movements In winter's cold weather, some people endure prolonged periods without urinating or defecating due to fear of the cold. Little do they realize that holding these bodily functions poses significant health risks and can trigger various illnesses.Prolonged urine retention causes urine to accumulate in the bladder. Urine containing bacteria and toxic substances that is not promptly expelled...
Holding Urine and Stool
During the cold winter months, some people hold their urine or stool for extended periods to avoid the cold. Little do they know that holding both can be extremely harmful to the body and may trigger various diseases.Prolonged urine retention causes urine to accumulate in the bladder. When urine containing bacteria and toxins is not expelled promptly, it can easily lead to conditions such as cystitis, urethritis, painful urination, hematuria, or enuresis. In severe cases, urinary tract infections can spread upward to the kidneys, causing pyelonephritis and even impairing kidney function. Studies indicate that individuals who frequently hold their urine have a significantly higher incidence of prostate disorders and bladder cancer.
When stool is not expelled promptly, water is repeatedly reabsorbed by the intestines, leading to hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass.Toxins in feces accumulate in the body for too long, allowing harmful substances to be absorbed by the intestines. This can cause symptoms such as lethargy, dizziness, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Furthermore, prolonged constipation may disrupt the intestinal flora environment, leading to a series of anorectal diseases such as constipation, anal fissures, and hemorrhoids. In severe cases, it may even trigger intestinal cancer.
Retaining Semen
Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes "conservation" as key to winter health preservation. Consequently, some mistakenly believe abstaining from sexual activity or avoiding ejaculation during intercourse is advisable in winter. This practice is actually detrimental to health.If semen accumulates in the seminal vesicles without normal discharge for extended periods, the testicles endure prolonged "high pressure." This may impair sperm production, gradually leading to testicular atrophy, loss of sexual function, and physical discomfort. Furthermore, prolonged ejaculation suppression during sexual activity can cause chronic prostatitis and other disorders.Therefore, regardless of circumstances, as an essential physiological process, one must never deliberately suppress it. Letting nature take its course is the wisest approach.
Staying Cooped Up Indoors
During cold winters, many people prefer staying indoors, especially the elderly with weaker immune systems. With reduced sunlight exposure, the body's biological clock struggles to adapt to shorter daylight hours. Prolonged confinement indoors can disrupt physiological rhythms and cause endocrine imbalances, leading to irritability, depression, fatigue, diminished energy, and poor concentration.Prolonged confinement also weakens immunity, making illness more likely. Therefore, avoid staying indoors for extended periods in winter. Regularly venture outdoors to fresh air and spacious areas for activities like walking, jogging, practicing Tai Chi, or aerobic dancing. These help lift spirits and alleviate depressive states.