Definition of Urinary Frequency

Urinary frequency, also called frequent or urgent urination, is defined as the sudden need to urinate. Sufferers of urinary frequency are often plagued by discomfort in the bladder.

Nocturia

• Urinary frequency may often occur at night. This is called nocturia and is commonly found in middle-aged and older men. According to Medline Plus, most individuals can sleep for six to eight hours without having to go to the bathroom, but sufferers of nocturia may need to urinate several times throughout the night.

Common Causes

• The most common cause of urinary frequency is a urinary tract infection. Inflammation in the bladder impacts its ability to hold urine, resulting in discomfort, pain and the urgent and frequent need to urinate. Other common causes are diabetes, prostate problems and pregnancy.

Other Causes

• Other causes may be diuretic medications, stroke, overactive bladder syndrome, interstitial cystitis (an inflammation of the bladder walls) and prostatitis (swelling and irritation of the prostate gland).

Less Common Causes

• Less common causes may be bladder cancer or the effects of radiation therapy for a number of cancers and conditions.

Tests

• If you choose to see a doctor, he may perform one or several of the following tests to determine the cause of your urinary frequency problems: urinalysis; an abdominal ultrasound; a urine culture test; a cystoscopy (a look at the inside of the bladder and urethra); or in some cases, a neurological test.