Caffeine and Its Effect on Your Shy Bladder

If you suffer from paruresis – also known as “shy bladder” – you have probably tried everything under the sun to get rid of the problem.  Logically, you know that everyone in the world uses public bathrooms – everyone except you, that is.  You may find it comforting to know that approximately 7% of the population suffers from shy bladder, and that you are not the only one that will do almost anything to avoid using a public restroom.

You may have frightening thoughts; you fear that if you use a public bathroom, people might “hear” you or even laugh or make fun of you.  Those with paruresis often go to extraordinary measures to make sure that they will not have to “go” while they are away from home.  That may mean cutting back or eliminating fluids before leaving the house, which can be dangerous to your health.  If you drink coffee, tea, or other beverages with caffeine, you may find it interesting to learn the effect of caffeine on shy or bashful bladder.

Should You Increase or Decrease Your Intake of Caffeine if You Have Paruresis?

When it comes to caffeine, there are pros and cons for those who suffer with shy bladder.  Too much caffeine can increase your anxiety level, and paruresis is an anxiety disorder to begin with.

That being said, a certain amount of caffeine can make the urge to urinate more pronounced, which may help if you engage in graduated exposure practice to make dealing with shy bladder easier.

Ideally, caffeine should be used with care, but since it is a substance you have the ability to control, that isn’t too hard.  If you can find an intake amount that seems to help you go without making you feel more anxious, stick to it.

Paruresis is a condition that is often known as a “social phobia” or anxiety related issue.  Most people who suffer with the disorder have frightening thoughts about using a public restroom.  These “negative” thoughts are caused by impulses in the brain that may results in physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat, racing thoughts, or even sweating.

Caffeine does increase anxiety if taken in large amounts; however, if you can find that fine line that helps you go without increasing the anxiousness you feel it won’t harm you in any way.  In short, caffeine stimulates the production of urine but can also increase anxiety, so proceed with caution.

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