There are two types of nocturnal incontinence. Bed-wetting (nocturnal enuresis) is the involuntary urination during sleep after reaching an age when people are expected to stay dry. This should not be confused with nocturia, which describes frequent urination – in other words, the need to wake up one or more times during the night to urinate.
Bed-wetting in adults (nocturnal enuresis) and nocturia Bed-wetting in adults usually has different causes than those found in children. Among adults, wetness is known as nocturnal enuresis. The reasons can be varied - but in general, frequent urination can mean that the body produces more urine due to changes in the production of certain hormones, kidney problems, diseases or the effects of drugs. This can lead to nocturnal enuresis (bed-wetting) or the need to go to the washroom one or more times during the night - a condition called nocturia. It should be noted that it is normal for elderly people to get up once or twice a night to urinate.
What causes enuresis and nocturia in adults?
As we age, our bodies change. One of these changes is an increased need to urinate. So if you are at the stage of life where you go to the bathroom several times a night, it is normal. There are several different reasons for this. A younger person can hold up to half a liter of urine, but with age this usually drops to about half as the bladder muscles become less flexible.
Anti-diuretic hormone production
Another factor that causes the nocturnal urge to urinate in old age is related to a reduced ability to concentrate urine at night. This in turn leads to large amounts of dilute urine. Total urine output up to 2 hours don't have to change - however, as you get older, you pass more urine at night than when you were younger. The amount of water excreted by the kidneys is regulated by anti-diuretic hormone, which signals the kidneys to reduce the amount of urine produced.
Polyuria
Nocturia and bed-wetting in adults can also occur when the body produces too much urine. Polyuria is an excessive or abnormally large amount of urine output or excretion, regardless of the time of day. A healthy adult produces an average of 1—2 liters of urine per day, depending on how much fluid is taken in and how much moisture is released from the body. In polyuria, this amount increases to 2.8 liters or more. Polyuria can be a symptom of diabetes and other causes. If you are unsure and need advice, always contact your doctor.
Prostate problems
The prostate often enlarges as men age. Because this gland surrounds the urethra, an enlarged prostate can put pressure on the urethra. This prevents the bladder from emptying properly, causing more nighttime urination.
Bladder problems
Bladder problems, such as urge incontinence, where a person feels a sudden need to urinate, can cause nocturnal enuresis and nocturia. An overactive bladder can also cause nocturia.
Heart problems
Cardiac patients have reduced circulation and one of its symptoms can be swelling of the leg area. When the patient lies down or raises the legs, as we do during sleep or rest, the fluid accumulated around the lower leg enters the bloodstream and is drained by the kidneys. The result is an increased need for the toilet at night.
Diabetes
High blood sugar increases thirst. Drinking more than usual increases the need to urinate. High blood sugar causes the kidneys to excrete sugar into the urine, which increases the amount of urine and in turn causes the need to urinate more often.
Other causes of wetness and nocturia in adults
Lifestyle can affect how much you urinate. For example, drinking a lot of fluids. Caffeine and alcohol after dinner can also cause the need to urinate at night.
How to treat enuresis and nocturia?
You can treat the symptoms of nocturia yourself in several ways. These include:
Limit drinking before bed
Don't drink too much, too late at night without reducing your daily fluid intake by 6—8 cups or 2 liters. It's more about when you drink than how much.
Limit your caffeine consumption
Coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages can irritate the bladder and disrupt sleep. Try to limit their consumption.
Elevate swollen ankles
If you have swollen ankles, try sitting or lying with your feet in the air for about an hour during the day. Using support socks can also help.
Check your medications
Some medications can increase urination and nocturia. Ask your doctor if this may be the case. You should never stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor. Nocturia and drugs and diseases associated with nocturia include:
Heart and kidney disease
Diabetes
Diuretics and sedatives
Overactive bladder
Leakage of urine
Does sleep reduce distractions? Do you have a comfortable temperature in your bedroom? Is it too bright? If you do, try to reduce the number of naps.
KE gel or pelvic floor exercises
KE gel exercises, also known as pelvic floor exercises, are one of the most effective ways to improve and maintain bowel and bladder function. Many people find that bladder exercises are also helpful.
What specific treatments are available for nocturia?
Prostate problems
If you are concerned that you may have prostate problems, speak to your doctor, who will perform an examination and discuss treatment options. These range from medication to surgery.
Leakage of urine
There are various ways to treat and manage urinary incontinence, such as adult diapers.
Even if you're looking for an advanced vibration treatment, adult diapers can be a useful middle ground.
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