Clean public washrooms are hard to find in the valley, and that may be why many people choose to wait a little longer. Students sit through classes in discomfort. Workers in orchards and shops delay restroom breaks. Travellers hold it in during traffic jams and long queues. The habit looks harmless, though the body responds differently.

The bladder only stores urine for a short time. When people ignore the urge again and again, the system strains. Doctors across Kashmir see rising cases of urinary tract infections, bladder issues, and kidney complications. Young women, office goers, students, and elderly men with prostate problems form the largest group of patients. Many say the trouble began because they delayed urinating during work hours or travel.

A full bladder is a warm space. Urine that sits too long gives bacteria more time to grow. This is why urinary infections are common among women, though men face similar risks. A single infection can disturb daily life through fever and burning sensations. Repeated infections force people to skip work or college and make frequent hospital visits.

These patterns play out in clinics across Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Sopore, and Kupwara.

The bladder is a strong muscle that works well when treated with care. Stretching it beyond capacity weakens it over time. People who hold urine often eventually struggle to empty the bladder fully. They experience frequent urges, leakage, or discomfort even after using the bathroom. It affects confidence, sleep, and routine activities.

The kidneys, which work silently to remove waste from the blood, depend on a healthy bladder. When the bladder stays too full, pressure can push urine back toward the kidneys. This can harm kidney tissue. Kashmir already sees a high burden of kidney stones and other renal diseases. Holding urine is one of the small but important factors behind this rise.

Pain is another clear sign. People working long shifts in fields, offices, or shops often report lower abdominal cramps or back pain. Many do not link this pain to a full bladder. The strain builds slowly and appears as aches that come and go. These become part of daily life until a doctor points out the root cause.

Older men in Kashmir deal with an added challenge. Prostate enlargement is common after a certain age. Delaying urination puts more pressure on the bladder and reduces the flow. Many elderly men speak of discomfort during winter months or during long prayers when they try to wait longer.

A simple habit can prevent these problems. Empty the bladder every three to four hours or whenever the urge appears. Drink enough water through the day. Reduce caffeine and fizzy drinks. Strengthen pelvic muscles through basic exercises. These steps may look small, though they protect long-term health and improve comfort.

Many men ask whether sitting or standing is better for urination. Young and healthy men can choose either position. Men with weak flow or prostate issues benefit from sitting because it helps the bladder empty completely. Women empty the bladder best in a sitting or squatting position.

Bladder health rarely finds space in our public conversations. People talk about blood pressure, sugar, diet, and fitness. Urinary health stays unnoticed, even though it affects daily comfort and long-term well-being.

A full bladder is a message from the body. Responding on time is a simple act of care that protects health, improves focus, and strengthens quality of life.

MENAFN19112025000215011059ID1110364659