Nocturia is a condition in which you wake up at night to empty the bladder. More frequent during aging, it can affect both men and women and can be associated with polyuria (the production of more than 2 liters of urine per day), nocturnal polyuria (overproduction of urine at night), and reduced bladder capacity to retain urine during the night or sleep disorders.
The causes of nocturia can be very different. At the base of polyuria there may be a high intake of fluids or diabetes not adequately treated. The nocturnal polyuria may instead be associated with heart failure, swelling in the legs, obstructive sleep apnea, certain medications (such as diuretics) or an excess of vitamin D. The problem with the bladder may instead be associated with infection, inflammation, obstruction, benign tumors or hyperplasia.
What kind of diseases can be associated with nocturia?
The following diseases may be associated with nocturia:
- Sleep apnea
- Prostate cancer
- Cystitis
- Interstitial Cystitis
- Diabetes
- BPH
- Bladder tumor
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it is highly recommended to consult your doctor, in case of symptom’s persistence.
What is the therapy for nocturia?
The remedies in the event of nocturia depend on the causes of the problem. Sometimes it may be necessary to limit the intake of some drinks (like coffee and alcohol), sometimes modify the intake of certain medications. Other times it may be useful to sleep with your legs slightly raised or use graduated compression stockings to reduce fluid accumulation in the limbs.
Among the drugs that may be useful are: anticholinergics that help regulate the activity of the bladder, the diuretics that regulate the production of urine and desmopressin that helps the kidneys to produce less urine.
Finally, in the case of sleep apnea is important to consult a sleep specialist or a pulmonologist to determine the best solution to your case.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of nocturia?
If you suffer from nocturia, speak to your doctor, who may prescribe an urologic investigation.
