Sitting down to binge watch the latest TV drama might seem like the perfect way to unwind, but researchers have found that people who spend lengthy periods in front of the box are more likely to need to pee multiple times a night.

Researchers from China published a study in the journal Neurourology and Urodynamics discussing their analysis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in the US. They specifically looked at responses gathered between 2011 and 2016.

The researchers discovered that 32% of the 13,294 individuals, aged 20 and over, reported having nocturia, which is characterized by waking up two or more times during the night to urinate.

After considering various factors such as age, gender, BMI, ethnicity, education, and diabetes status, the study revealed that individuals who spent five or more hours per day watching TV or videos had a 48% increased risk of developing nocturia compared to those who watched less than an hour.

According to the researchers, this study is the first investigation into the potential link between TV and/or video watching time and nocturia.

The team states that they do not have a clear understanding of how prolonged TV watching contributes to the risk of experiencing nocturia.

Nevertheless, they indicate several potential reasons for the correlation. They highlight that extended periods of watching TV have been linked to a higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, a known risk factor for nocturia. Additionally, being inactive is connected to retaining fluids in the legs, which could also play a role.

Additionally, the authors note that watching TV often coincides with drinking beverages, resulting in increased fluid intake. They also suggest that extended TV viewing could potentially cause neurological issues that may contribute to bladder problems. Furthermore, they mention that watching TV may impact the length and quality of sleep.

The authors state that a decline in the quality of sleep is strongly connected to experiencing nocturia.

There are limitations to the study, such as its inability to establish causation and its use of self-reported data, including information on television viewing habits.

However, the team suggests that healthcare providers should inform patients about the connection. They state, “Raising awareness of this potential health hazard among the general public can prompt individuals to be more conscious of their TV and/or video usage.”

Professor James Catto from the University of Sheffield, who was not part of the study, stated that there may be several factors complicating the findings. He observed that individuals with nocturia are typically older, have a higher body mass index, and are less physically active.

“Is their nocturia caused by excessive TV watching, or do they watch TV all day due to other factors and as a result use the restroom more frequently?” He acknowledged that this question cannot be addressed by the current study.

According to Catto, nocturia is prevalent, especially in the elderly, and may not always be worrisome. However, it can be linked to cancer, infections, or diabetes.

“If you frequently experience nocturnal urination that causes discomfort, it is recommended to consult with a general practitioner. They can conduct tests to rule out diabetes as the cause.” However, Catto also mentioned, “Many individuals are not overly concerned about experiencing occasional nighttime urination.”

Source: theguardian.com