Women Face Risks When Using the Bathroom at Night... Reducing Sodium Intake Is Essential [Health Issue]

[The Financial News] An analysis suggests that women experiencing nocturia are at a higher risk of developing hypertension. In particular, as temperatures drop during winter, blood vessels constrict, making blood pressure management even more crucial.
According to the medical community, there is a close correlation between nocturia and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Waking up during sleep to urinate disrupts the body's circadian rhythm, preventing the heart and blood vessels from fully resting, which can lead to elevated blood pressure. Additionally, a diet high in salty foods increases thirst and fluid intake, causing nocturia and serving as a major factor in worsening CVD.

A research team led by Seonggeun Park and Jung Joo-young at the Seoul Health Screening Center of Kangbuk Samsung Hospital analyzed the impact of nocturia on hypertension, considering the Korean tendency toward salty foods. The study used data from 32,420 individuals who underwent health screenings between 2013 and 2019, excluding those with pre-existing hypertension. Participants were divided into four groups based on nocturia frequency: none, once per week, one to two times per week, and three or more times per week. The team tracked the incidence of hypertension in these groups over an average of 6.8 years.
The analysis found that all female groups experiencing nocturia had a higher risk of developing hypertension compared to those without symptoms. In contrast, no statistically significant association was found between nocturia and increased blood pressure in men.

The risk of hypertension increases during winter as the body constricts blood vessels to prevent heat loss, narrowing the blood flow and raising blood pressure. Therefore, women with nocturia should monitor their blood pressure regularly and, if diagnosed with hypertension, make necessary lifestyle changes.
When going outdoors, it is recommended to wear scarves and thick coats to maintain body warmth. Outdoor activities such as jogging or walking should be avoided during the cold early morning hours. Special caution is needed when using saunas in winter, as the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors can cause a sudden spike in blood pressure. After showering, it is best to gradually lower the water temperature to cool down the body before stepping outside.

Since nocturia is often linked to dietary habits, correcting eating patterns is essential. Simply reducing sodium intake and shifting from a meat-based to a vegetable-based diet can lower systolic blood pressure by 5 to 10 mmHg.
In the first stage of hypertension, normal blood pressure can be restored through lifestyle changes. However, if diagnosed with stage 2 hypertension, immediate medication is necessary for safety. The type and dosage of medication should always be determined in consultation with a specialist. Patients should never self-prescribe or adjust medication duration on their own, as this can lead to adverse effects.
hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter