What Happens to Your Urine When You Smoke Marijuana Every Day

Marijuana, often celebrated for its relaxing effects and as a means of alleviating various ailments, is being used by an increasing number of humans every day. Yet, what many might not realize is the impact regular marijuana smoking could have on their urinary health.

Marijuana is not just about experiencing fatigue, slowed reaction times, or even getting a case of the munchies. According to recent studies, those lighting up daily might need to watch out for more than just smoke. Researchers are beginning to shed light on how marijuana interacts with our urinary systems, potentially influencing conditions like overactive bladder and the health of urinary proteins.

What to know about its effects on urinary health

In a groundbreaking 2024 study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, scientists analyzed data from over 430,100 adults across the U.S. Remarkably, 4% of these individuals reported daily marijuana use, predominantly through smoking. 

These findings were backed by a 2017 study in the journal Urology, where changes in urinary proteins linked to regular cannabis use were observed. This could signal new ways to approach treatments for lower urinary tract disorders.

On the flip side, marijuana might also offer some relief. Certain studies suggest that cannabinoids—the active chemicals in marijuana—might alleviate discomfort associated with lower urinary tract issues. However, the coin has another side.

Daily users might be at risk of overactive bladder

It turns out, that regular users might be more prone to developing an overactive bladder, a condition characterized by urgent and frequent needs to urinate, according to findings referenced in The American Journal of Medicine. These individuals might find themselves waking up multiple times at night, a disturbance known as nocturia.

The mechanics behind this involve involuntary muscle contractions within the bladder which are necessary to expel urine. But in those with overactive bladder, these contractions happen too often, sometimes triggered by minimal amounts of urine. While various factors like bladder stones, hormonal changes during menopause, or certain neurological conditions can contribute to this disorder, marijuana use has emerged as a possible exacerbating factor.

The research on marijuana’s impact on urinary health remains mixed. Some experts, like Dr. Timmen L. Cermak, suggest that while marijuana can relax the muscles in the bladder, excessive use might lead to complications like severe urinary retention. Dr. Cermak notes cases where patients who used marijuana heavily for extended periods faced significant challenges.

Recommendations for those concerned

For individuals concerned about the health of their urinary tract, experts recommend moderation in not only substances like alcohol and caffeine but potentially marijuana as well.  Also, engaging in pelvic floor exercises and maintaining a regular physical exercise regimen might help mitigate the risks associated with overactive bladder.

While marijuana continues to be a complex and often controversial topic, understanding its full range of effects on the body is crucial for anyone considering its regular use. Whether for medical or recreational purposes, informed decisions are the best path forward in managing one’s health and well-being.