Cold is Bad for Your Bladder and Kidneys
- Avoid cold feet
- Don't let your bum cool down on the park bench
- Change wet or sweaty clothing immediately
I hear you saying: How uncool! But your mum was right when she didn’t let you wear hot pants on the first spring day and insisted that you change your swimsuit after every swim.
Have you ever wondered why hypothermia can have a negative impact on your bladder health?
The explanation is quite simple: Hypothermia suppresses your immune system temporarily, and since your body's defense and flushing are the most important allies in fighting bladder infections, you should keep your lower body and feet warm.
Once you, like me, are celebrating a life without recurring bladder infections, you can also become more lenient when it comes to cold. Maybe you even like walking barefoot from time to time? A healthy bladder, combined with a strong immune system, usually handles cold quite well.
Cold suppresses the immune system
Cold causes blood vessels to constrict, and poor circulation automatically leads to a weaker immune defence.
When cold affects certain parts of the body, the body reduces local blood flow to prevent heat loss. In these poorly perfused areas, the immune system cannot send enough defence cells. Pathogens thus have an easier time.
A person with a healthy immune system is generally not harmed by hypothermia. Usually, there are enough defence cells and antibodies present. However, for sensitive people who are prone to urinary tract infections, even the slightest cold snap often affects the bladder.
My Secret Tips
Warm Feet
I love the handmade wool socks from my auntie.
If my feet ever get too cold despite all efforts, a simple foot bath in hot water can help. All you need is warm water and a large bowl from your kitchen.
Change Wet Clothes
Swimming itself usually doesn’t cause UTIs, but walking around in a wet bikini bottom certainly does. After exercise, having a drink while still in sweaty clothes – also risky.
Warm the Kidney Area
Kidney warmer tubes*
are available in all colours and sizes.
Cushion Your Bum
A foldable Thermo seat cushion*
fits into almost any handbag.
Deluxe
A heated cushion is the ultimate gadget, for example,
USB heating pad*
Travel
Small and nearly invisible under your trousers are small thermopads, such as
Toe warmer thermopads*
