Symptom 10: Urinary Troubles: The Dark Side of Porphyria
Porphyria’s tale of distress doesn’t end at the skin or internal organs. It stretches further, reaching even the urinary system. Yes, urinary troubles are a significant part of porphyria’s extensive repertoire of symptoms, and they can be as much a mystery as the disease itself.
In this complex disorder, the body’s heme production goes haywire, leading to a buildup of porphyrins, the raw material for heme. These excess porphyrins don’t just sit idle; they get excreted through urine. Here’s where the mystery begins. In many cases of porphyria, the urine can change color, turning dark or even purple when exposed to light. It’s a strange, unsettling symptom that often baffles those who experience it.
But the urinary troubles associated with porphyria aren’t just about unusual urine color. Some people with the disease experience painful urination. It’s like having a constant, nagging reminder of the disorder, a discomfort that can’t be easily ignored.
Then there are the more severe cases, where porphyria leads to urinary retention. In this situation, the person is unable to fully empty their bladder, leading to discomfort and an increased risk of urinary tract infections. It’s a distressing problem that adds to the already heavy burden of dealing with porphyria.(10)
