Frequent urination is when a person needs to urinate more often than usual, which can be inconvenient and disruptive to daily life. It can happen to anyone, but it is more common in people over the age of 70, pregnant people, and people with an enlarged prostate. The most common cause of frequent urination is urinary tract infections (UTIs) . Other possible causes include:
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Enlarged prostate: This is a common cause of frequent urination in middle-aged and older men.
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Overactive bladder syndrome: This is a condition where involuntary bladder contractions lead to frequent and often urgent urination, even if the bladder is not full.
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Diabetes: Frequent urination with an abnormally large amount of urine is often an early symptom of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes as the body tries to rid itself of unused glucose through the urine.
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Urinary tract and bladder problems: Urinary tract infections, interstitial cystitis, and urethral opening stenosis are common causes of frequent urination.
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Vaginitis: Swelling or infection of the vagina can cause frequent urination.
To diagnose the underlying cause of frequent urination, a doctor may perform a physical exam and take a medical history, as well as order tests such as urinalysis to check for bacteria and white blood cells. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include antibiotics for UTIs, medication for overactive bladder syndrome, or surgery for an enlarged prostate.