Nocturia management using multiple strategies

This study reviewed the management of nocturia using multiple strategies.

Nocturia is waking at night to urinate. It can lead to reduced sleep duration and quality. It can have a negative impact on quality of life. Nocturia can be caused by a number of factors. Increased urine production at night can also lead to nocturia. This is called nocturnal polyuria (NP).

Since many factors can lead to nocturia, its management may require multiple strategies. 

Patients should first be assessed to determine the cause of nocturia. Diabetes, cardiac failure, and sleep apnea can affect nocturia. Behavioral therapy is recommended for all patients with nocturia. Fluid intake should be limited in the evening. Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided 4-6 hours before bedtime. Some patients may take diuretics to treat cardiac conditions. Diuretics are drugs that increase urine production. If a patient is taking diuretics they should do so early in the afternoon.

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a cause of nocturia. Drugs that relax the bladder muscle can improve OAB. This can improve nocturia. Anti-muscarinic drugs are the most effective treatment for OAB. Treating OAB does not always improve nocturia.

In many cases, nocturia is caused by NP. To treat NP, drugs that reduce urine volume are prescribed. Desmopressin reduces the volume of urine produced. Desmopressin treatment reduces the number of nighttime urinations. High doses can lead to complications such as hyponatremia (low salt levels in the blood).

Female patients should be assessed by a number of specialists to manage nocturia. A urologist can assess bladder symptoms. A gynecologist and a general physician should also be consulted.

This study reviewed the management of nocturia using multiple strategies.