Which condition is excessive urination during the night? enuresis nocturia
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct term for excessive urination during the night is nocturia, not enuresis.
Nocturia:
Nocturia is the condition in which a person wakes up during the night one or more times to urinate. It is commonly associated with an increase in the volume of urine produced at night, though it can also be caused by other factors, such as an overactive bladder or underlying health conditions. Nocturia can disrupt a person’s sleep, leading to fatigue and reduced quality of life.
Causes of Nocturia:
Nocturia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Age: As people age, their ability to concentrate urine decreases, leading to an increased production of urine at night. Additionally, older adults may have weakened bladder muscles that make it more difficult to hold urine.
- Excessive Fluid Intake: Drinking too much fluid, particularly before bedtime, can lead to nocturia. Caffeine and alcohol can also increase urine production.
- Medical Conditions:
- Diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2): High blood sugar can lead to increased urination, including during the night.
- Heart Failure: In this condition, fluid buildup during the day may be reabsorbed when lying down at night, increasing urine production.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: Impaired kidney function can lead to difficulty in concentrating urine, resulting in more frequent urination at night.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea: This condition can cause nocturia due to intermittent drops in oxygen levels during sleep, triggering urine production.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) or Bladder Infections: These can cause an urgent need to urinate, especially at night.
Enuresis:
Enuresis refers to involuntary urination, particularly in children, and is typically not associated with the frequency of urination, but rather its lack of control during sleep. This is distinct from nocturia, where the individual consciously wakes up to urinate.
Treatment:
Treatment for nocturia depends on the underlying cause. Lifestyle changes like reducing fluid intake before bed, managing diabetes or heart conditions, and addressing any bladder issues can help reduce nocturia. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms.