The conditions that cause frequent urination at night are generally the same conditions that can cause it to happen during the day. Some of the more common conditions are diabetes, thyroid disorders, and a prostate that has become enlarged. In addition, diseases or infection in the kidneys and bladder can cause the problem. Sometimes, night urination is not the cause of any type of disorder, but simply a result of drinking liquids before bedtime.
Excessive liquid consumption is a common symptom of diabetes, and is often the cause of frequent urination at night. Diabetes sometimes causes excessive thirst, which naturally leads to more urination. The excessive thirst that is sometimes associated with diabetes is believed to be caused by high glucose levels in the blood.
Bladder infections can often be the cause of frequent urination. Bladder infections are usually not serious, and often clear up on their own by drinking eight to ten glasses of water per day. Sometimes bladder infections are severe and persistent, and may require prescription medication. Doctors typically prescribe sulphur-based drugs along with a round of antibiotics. In addition to frequent urination, bladder infections often cause urination to be painful and cloudy.
In many cases, overactive bladder, also referred to as irritable bladder, can cause frequent urination at night. People who have an overactive bladder may also have sudden urgency when they need to urinate. Frequently they have little or no warning and must wear pads or diapers during both the day and night. This condition is more common in people of advanced age and is believed to be caused by the malfunction of the detrusor muscle. This is one of the primary muscles that help control urination.
Frequent urination at night is sometimes caused by more serious conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injury, and prostate and bladder cancer. The enlargement of the prostate gland, which is common in prostate cancer, can put added pressure on the bladder. This increased pressure typically causes the bladder to contract and create the need to urinate.
Sometimes people can reduce the incidence of frequent urination at night by simply reducing their liquid intake in the hours leading up to bedtime. Emptying the bladder right before bedtime is also a good way to get uninterrupted sleep. Many times, these simple steps may eliminate the problem, but if frequent urination at night is a persistent condition, it is probably a good idea to seek advice from a physician.
