Winter often changes bathroom routines for many people. Men, in particular, may notice they wake up more often at night and make extra trips to the toilet. While cold weather commonly leads to increased urination, in some cases it may be the body’s way of pointing to an underlying kidney or urinary problem that should not be overlooked. We got in touch with Dr. Vineet Malhotra, Head of Urology and Director of VNA Hospital, who told us more about the same.Impact Of Cold Weather On The BodyWhen temperatures drop, blood vessels in the skin tighten and become narrower. This pushes more blood toward the internal organs. The kidneys respond to this extra blood flow by filtering out more fluid, leading to increased urine production. This process is known as diuresis. On top of that, reduced sweating during winter means the body gets rid of excess fluid through urine instead, as per Dr Malhotra.That said, not every change in winter urination is harmless. In men over 40, frequent urination can sometimes signal a health concern. One common reason is prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. Cold weather can worsen prostate symptoms due to muscle tightening and lower levels of physical activity. Signs such as a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, or a constant feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied should not be ignored. Kidney-related issues can also play a role in increased urination.Frequent Urination Can Be A Kidney ProblemFrequent urination is often accompanied by warning signs. These may include a burning sensation while urinating, foamy urine, blood in the urine, back pain, swelling in the feet or face, ongoing fatigue, or unexplained changes in blood pressure. Dr Malhotra said, “Winter dehydration is another concern, as people tend to feel less thirsty in cold weather. Low fluid intake can put extra strain on the kidneys and increase the risk of infections or kidney stones.” Dr Malhotra stresses that men with diabetes or high blood pressure need to be especially cautious, as both conditions are major causes of kidney disease. Cold weather can make blood sugar harder to control and may raise blood pressure levels. For men with diabetes or hypertension, frequent urination during winter could be a sign that the kidneys are under stress.When Should Men Have Their Kidneys Checked?If frequent urination continues for more than a week, disturbs sleep, or is linked with pain, fever, or visible changes in urine, it is important to consult a doctor. Men who wake up multiple times at night to urinate, a condition known as nocturia, even after limiting evening fluid intake, should not dismiss it as normal and should seek medical advice.Dr Malhotra said, “The reassuring part is that many kidney and urinary conditions can be managed well if detected early. Drinking enough water during the day, even in cold weather, helps keep the kidneys functioning properly. Staying physically active, reducing salt and alcohol intake, and paying close attention to urinary changes can also support kidney health.”Winter can alter how the body behaves in subtle ways. But if certain symptoms appear regularly, they should not be brushed aside. Being attentive to these signals and responding early can help prevent more serious problems in the future.