What Is Nocturia?
Nocturia occurs when a person awakens several times throughout the night in order to urinate. This condition is mainly present in people 60 years and older but can occur in younger people as well. Both men and women can suffer from nocturia, but the causes are different .
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Causes of Nocturia
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Women usually experience nocturia because of menopause, pelvic organ prolapse or childbirth. Men may suffer from nocturia because of an enlarged prostate. On the other hand, both men and women can experience this condition for other reasons as well. For example, drinking excessive amounts of liquid before going to bed can contribute to nocturia. Other potential causes of the condition may include diuretic medicine or the consumption of alcohol or caffeine. The bladder of both men and women may decrease in liquid capacity, causing frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom.
More Serious Causes of Nocturia
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Frequent urination at night can be the result of more serious medical conditions as well. Diseases such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, heart disease, vascular disease and other illnesses may also cause nocturia. Such diseases can negatively change the way the body functions, triggering the need to urinate more often at night.
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What to Do If You Suspect Nocturia
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If you suspect you have nocturia, you should set up an appointment to visit your doctor. Before visiting your physician, it's important that you take note of your symptoms and the number of times you go to the bathroom after bedtime. Keep track of the amount and types of liquids you drink. When visiting the doctor, let her know if you are currently taking a water pill or any other medications. Also let the doctor know if you suffer from frequent urinary tract infections. Be prepared to discuss family medical history.
Treatment
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Once a physician determines that you suffer from nocturia, she will plan treatment for your condition. First, the doctor will prescribe behavior therapy. With this particular form of treatment, you will be instructed to limit fluid intake at night. You may be asked to sleep with your legs elevated or wear compression socks. Taking a nap in the afternoon may also help. These methods help to reduce fluid retention within the body.
Medicine
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In addition to behavior therapy, the doctor may prescribe medication to alleviate the effects of nocturia. Such medicines help to relax muscles of the bladder and stop bladder overactivity. As with any medications, side effects can occur. Common side effects of this type of medication include dizziness, dryness of the mouth and blurred vision. Other medications prescribed for nocturia include ones that decrease the amount of urine produced by the kidneys.
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