In a nutshell
This study reviewed nocturia and its treatment.
Some background
Nocturia is the urge to urinate at night. Nocturia can affect sleep disturbance. This can lead to poor sleep, depression, reduced quality of life and increased risk of falls. Nocturnal polyuria (NP) is the overproduction of urine at night (greater than 20-33% of total 24-hour urine volume depending on age).
It is important to diagnose which type of nocturia a patient has to treat it correctly.
Methods & findings
For the diagnosis of nocturia and it's cause, history and physical examination are crucial. Patients can be asked to keep a 3-days bladder diary. Standardized nocturia questionnaires have also been developed.
Lifestyle changes are the first intervention used for the management of nocturia and NP. These include minimal fluid intake 2 hours before bed, emptying the bladder before going to bed, restricting caffeine and alcohol, increasing exercise, and reducing salt intake. If this does not control symptoms medications can be used. These are effective in reducing urine output. However, sometimes patients do not get a clinical response.
Antidiuretic treatment can be used to treat NP. Antidiuretic medications stop the urine from being made at night. This has been shown to provide statistically significant reductions in nocturnal voids. Desmopressin (Noctiva) is an example of antidiuretic.
A multidisciplinary approach is necessary to effectively diagnose and manage this bothersome condition.
The bottom line
This study reviewed nocturia and nocturnal polyuria management.
Published By :
Urology
Date :
Oct 02, 2019
