In a nutshell
This study investigated the frequency, types, and predictive factors for nocturia (night-time urinating). Researchers suggested that nocturia is common in patients with urinary symptoms and causes significant bother.
Some background
Nocturia is a common urinary symptom. It increases with age and is present in around 70% of men and women over the age of 60. It increases the risk of falls and hip fractures, reduces sleep and life quality.
Nocturia can be divided into 4 subtypes: global polyuria (increased volume of urine) and night-time polyuria (increased volume of urine at night), reduced bladder capacity, and mixed causes. Prior studies have used information often about men over 60 with prostate enlargement. This might not reflect all the individuals affected by nocturia. Further studies with a more diverse population are necessary.
Methods & findings
This study included information about 502 (285 men and 217 women) patients with nocturia. These patients completed 3-day bladder diaries. 20.5% of patients had 0 nocturia episodes over 3 days (group 1). 20.1% had between 0 and 1 (group 2), 32.9% had between 1 and 2 (group 3) and 16.5% had more than 2 episodes (group 4) over 3 days.
67% of patients with 1 or more episodes of nocturia reported significant bother. Night-time polyuria was the most common type of nocturia. It was present in 17% of the patients from group 1, in 40% of group 2, in 65% of group 3, and 77% of group 4.
Higher degrees of nocturia were associated with male sex, greater sleep disorders, and multiple nocturia subtypes.
The bottom line
This study concluded that nocturia is present in almost half of patients with urinary symptoms with night-time polyuria being the most common subtype.
The fine print
This study was based on patients' recollection. This type of study is not always the most trustworthy. Further studies are needed.
Published By :
Neurourology and urodynamics
Date :
Apr 06, 2020
