The Science of Shy Bladder: Difficulty Peeing in Public Restrooms

Do you find it very difficult to pee in public places? If yes, you are certainly not alone. The inability to pee in common places is also known as the shy bladder syndrome. Scientifically, it is known as “Paruresis”. Due to this condition, hundreds of thousands of people experience anxiety when they need to use restrooms in public places.

restroomMost people with shy bladder have the tendency to avoid public travel. In fact, they can even shun themselves from socializing with other people in public places. In a worse situation, people with shy bladder find it difficult to stay in office or classrooms for longer durations. Mainly because they need to come home (or a comfortable location) for peeing. According to a recent study, more than 20 million people in the United States of America are affected by this condition. From infants to elders, the condition can happen at any age.

Fortunately, you can treat shy bladder.

Signs and Symptoms of Shy Bladder

To cure shy bladder, you must be aware if you have the condition. Individuals who fear restrooms in public places, or when others are nearby can be affected by this syndrome. Even when they try to use the restroom, they find it difficult. In most cases, it is totally impossible for them to pee elsewhere.

When you are influenced by shy bladder, the following changes will happen in your daily lifestyle:

  1. People will stop attending social events. They are bound to deny work opportunities and new travel.
  2. Shy bladder can prevent people from consuming too many fluids.
  3. When the emotion strikes, you are likely to shake, sweat and even faint in extreme situations.
  4. People with shy bladder always look for restrooms that are isolated and empty.
  5. People with shy bladder are likely to return home for lunch breaks. This way, they don’t have to pee elsewhere.

If you are affected by shy bladder, you must visit a doctor immediately. The condition needs to be rectified, before it gets worse.

Causes of Shy Bladder

Before you treat shy bladder, it is important to understand why you are unable to pee in public places. Most of the time, doctors consider this situation as a phobia. It is quite similar to how people fear heights and darkness. Common reasons behind this condition are:

  1. If you are harassed, embarrassed or teased for using the restroom, you are bound to develop this phobia.
  2. If you have genetic predisposition, which is mainly caused due to nervousness or anxiety.
  3. Physiological conditions that affect your urinary habits.

Shy bladder is not a mental condition. It doesn’t signify a mental disorder that needs treatment or support.

Curing Shy Bladder

Fortunately, there are numerous treatments and medications to help you handle shy bladder. Before you take any over the counter medication, you must consult a doctor and evaluate the situation. The underlying cause of shy bladder should be identified. Consequently, you must follow a personalized treatment that solves its signs and symptoms.