Frequent Urination & Back Pain

Frequent urination can be an indication of several medical conditions such as a urinary tract infection or problems in the kidney, prostate and bladder. It could also be a sign of metabolic disorders such as diabetes (types 1 and 2) or diabetes insipidus. Back pain accompanying frequent urination can also be caused by other serious medical conditions.

Frequent urination

• Frequent and urgent urination can be caused by urinary tract infections (UTI). Other conditions that commonly cause frequent urination are pregnancy, diabetes and prostate problems. According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, drinking large quantities of fluids, especially alcohol, can trigger frequent urination. It can also be caused by diuretics, interstitial cystitis, idiopathic incontinence, as well stroke and other neurological disorders.

Back pain

• Back pain can be experienced by anyone, regardless of age, gender and health condition. There isn't just one type of back pain; there is a long list of pain conditions that affect not only the back but the spine and the neck as well. Pain can occur on any area of the back or simultaneously in several parts of the back. Pain can be felt in different patterns---in just a small area, or a radiating pain originating from a particular spot. Certain movements or activities can trigger it, or it could be a chronic pain. While the pain itself is a health problem, it can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.

Medical conditions

• Frequent urination and back pain are experienced with medical conditions such as acute bacterial prostatitis, bladder cancer, ovarian cancer, premenstrual syndrome, prostate cancer, kidney stone, pyelonephritis, urinary tract infections and spastic pelvic floor syndrome.

Considerations

• You need to see your doctor at once if your frequent urination is accompanied not only by back pain but also by fever or chills. You should also be concerned if you are experiencing vomiting, a sudden increase of appetite, sudden weight loss and fatigue.

  Medical attention may also be required if you are experiencing frequent urination but you are not pregnant or you have not been drinking large amounts of fluids, your urine is cloudy or bloody, or you consequently have penile or vaginal discharge.

Tests

• While a physical exam can help in correctly diagnosing your condition, tests can further help in the planning and evaluation of the treatments you may need. These may include urinalysis, urine culture and sensitivity tests. Depending on the results of the physical exam, your doctor may also order cystometry, cystoscopy, ultrasonography and neurological tests.