Why do I have to urinate so often, especially at night?
Frequent urination, also known as polakiuria, and nighttime urination, or nocturia, are more common in men as they age. These symptoms are usually caused by an enlarged prostate.
The cause: enlarged prostate
An enlarged prostate can be either benign or malignant. In most cases, especially when there are symptoms such as frequent urination, it is a benign enlargement. Prostate cancer, the malignant variant, usually does not cause symptoms in the early stages.
Weak flow and more urgency
Benign prostate enlargement is a normal part of aging. Every man's prostate enlarges over time. This enlargement can lead to a weak urine stream because the prostate presses the urethra. An enlarged prostate can also cause more urges, because the bladder is stimulated more often to urinate.
Pressure from middle lobe on bladder floor
Increased urge occurs especially when a middle lobe of the prostate grows that presses the bladder floor. In the bladder floor are sensors that give the brain a signal to urinate.
Frequent urination, should I treat it or not?
There is not much that can be done about benign prostate enlargement itself; it is a natural process. However, there are treatments available, such as medications that slow the growth of the prostate or reduce the stimulation and urge. These medications usually work well at first, but in the long term they can become less effective because the prostate growth cannot be stopped completely.
Every man experiences it differently
When and how a benign prostate enlargement causes symptoms differs per man. Some men get symptoms sooner than others. There is no direct relationship between the size of the prostate and the severity of the symptoms. However, a prostate middle lobe that presses on the bladder floor can cause more pronounced symptoms.
Tips to prevent frequent urination
What can you do yourself to reduce frequent urination?
- Spread your fluid intake evenly throughout the day and evening.
- Don't drink too much in the evening and avoid coffee and alcohol just before going to bed.
- A healthy lifestyle is always recommended, not only for your prostate but for your entire body.
