What is nocturia and why is it dangerous?
Nocturia is a very common condition that affects more than 50% of adults over the age of 50 during the night. Many people wake up in the night to urinate once or more, and while not inherently dangerous for younger and more mobile individuals, seniors pose many risks of falling.
As people get older, their bladder capacity may decrease, and they often produce less of the antidiuretic hormone which helps to reduce urine production at night. Waking up once during the night to use the bathroom can be considered normal, especially for older adults, however if the frequency increases and sleep is constantly disrupted it will affect daily life.
Worse than a disruptive sleep, nocturia increases your risk of falling. Having to get up multiple times in the night to use the bathroom, especially in older adults who may have reduced mobility and balance, is dangerous.
Nocturia can also be a sign of further underlying medical conditions that should be explored by a healthcare provider. These conditions can include urinary tract infections, bladder dysfunction, prostate issues (men), kidney problems, heart conditions, diabetes, menopause, and more. Disrupted sleep patterns that are often associated with nocturia can contribute to cardiovascular problems over time, including high blood pressure and heart disease.
Sleep disruption caused by nocturia can contribute to mental disorders such as anxiety and depression as well as worsen existing mental heath conditions. A person’s mood can be severely impacted which can cause irritability, frustration, and a reduction in overall quality of life. Insufficient sleep will lead to drowsiness and reduced cognitive functions which can affect activities at work, driving and concentrating.
It’s very important to note that the dangers of nocturia largely depend on the underlying cause and a medical professional should be consulted. A doctor or incontinence specialist can assess the situation, identify any underlying health issues, and recommend appropriate treatments, products, or lifestyle changes to address the condition and its dangers.
At ActivKare we carry products that help men with nocturia stay in bed. This means preventing dangerous trips to the bathroom which can cause falls and a more restful sleep for you, your partner, or caregiver. Our products can also reduce the physical burden for caregivers assisting patients who frequently need to get up or out of bed to urinate through the night.
If you, a loved one, or a patient is suffering with nocturia and are looking for better solutions to manage it please call us at 1(855)811-3733, write us at info@activkare.com or visit our store at ActivKare.com.