In a nutshell
This study investigated whether salt intake contributes to nocturia (excessive urination at night). Researchers suggested that salt intake is associated with nocturia in elderly men.
Some background
Among the elderly, the occurrence of nocturia is common. In men aged 70 years or older, one or more nocturia events are present in 68.9 to 93%. Two or more urination events at night-time affect health-related quality of life. Nocturia has also been associated with falls, bone fractures, and death.
Excessive salt intake is associated with high blood pressure. It is also associated with leg edema (swelling). Leg edema is a result of water retention and increased plasma volume. However, the association between salt intake, leg edema and night urine volume in elderly men is not well known
Methods & findings
This study included information about 52 men aged 60 years or more. Urine frequency and volume, night voiding events, and salt intake were assessed for all patients.
Higher daily salt intake was associated with leg edema at 5 pm. It was also associated with differences in leg fluid levels between 5 pm and 6 am as well as nocturnal urine volume. However, it was not related to urine volume in the daytime. Sleep duration and salt clearing in the urine were predictive factors for nocturia.
The bottom line
This study suggested that a high salt intake correlates with daytime leg edema and nocturia in older men.
The fine print
This study included a limited number of participants. Further studies with a bigger population are necessary. Also, this study only included men admitted for prostate enlargement. This condition is also associated with nocturia.
What’s next?
If you have concerns regarding nocturia and salt intake, please discuss this with your doctor.
Published By :
Neurourology and urodynamics
Date :
May 27, 2020
