Your bladder probably is not something you think about a lot. However, if you do not take care of this organ properly, you can experience unpleasant symptoms, like urine leakage and painful urination. Making a few lifestyle changes may be enough to keep your bladder in good shape. Here are six effective ways to keep your bladder healthy:
Stay Hydrated
Drinking eight cups of water every day is one of the easiest ways to keep your bladder running smoothly. Water helps get rid of harmful bacteria from your bladder, which can lower the risk of infections. If you are exercising a lot one day, you may need to drink even more water.
Stop Smoking
Lung cancer is not the only type of cancer tobacco causes. If you frequently smoke cigarettes, you are also at risk of developing bladder cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, people who smoke tobacco are three times as likely to get diagnosed with bladder cancer than those who do not smoke.
Do not Hold It In
No matter how busy you are, you should always make sure to use the bathroom. If you try to hold it in for too long, you can irritate your bladder and increase the risk of infections. It is perfectly alright to excuse yourself from work meetings or other events to empty your bladder.
Do Kegels
Another effective way to keep your bladder in good shape is to practice kegels. These exercises can strengthen your bladder and prevent urinary incontinence. All you have to do is tighten your pelvic floor muscles for five seconds and then relax for another five seconds. Try to do three sets of 10 repetitions every day.
Be Careful During Intercourse
Women need to be careful during sexual intercourse because it can sometimes lead to bladder infections. It is a wise idea to urinate after having intercourse to remove bacteria from your system.
Take a Walk
Fluid buildup in your legs can cause you to use the bathroom more frequently at night. If you have this problem, try taking a brisk walk every day. It will release some of the fluid and keep your bladder in check.
Following these helpful tips can keep your bladder in terrific shape. However, if you are still having issues with your bladder, you should make an appointment to see a doctor, like one with the Alliance For Women's Health, Inc. as soon as possible to find the appropriate solution.
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