There are many conditions that may interrupt sleep or contribute to insomnia. However, frequent nighttime urination, also called nocturia, may be one of the foremost culprits contributing to older individuals' interrupted sleep and daytime sleepiness.

Nocturia is a common cause of sleep loss, according to the National Sleep Foundation. It is generally the result of an underlying medical condition and can be connected to medications or be a side effect of certain lifestyle habits. Nearly 65 percent of older individuals (ages 55 to 84) often report this disturbance at least a few nights per week.

A person who cannot go 6 to 8 hours during the night without rising to use the bathroom is said to have nocturia. Frequent urination is also used to describe having to rise to visit the bathroom several times during the night for more than two days during the week.

Common causes of nocturia include:

*Drinking too much of a beverage before bed

* Consuming alcohol, caffeinated beverages, tea or other diuretics that can increase urine output

* Fluid redistribution when a person is lying down to sleep

* Certain medical conditions, including: congestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, diabetes insipidus, high blood pressure and vascular disease, among others

Treating frequent nighttime urination

A doctor or specialist may offer strategies for helping with nocturia. First, an assessment of habits and medical conditions can offer clues into the reasons behind the frequent urination. An answer simply may be a reduction in fluids at night or a change in diet.

Individuals who find a medical condition is at the root of nocturia can try different procedures to correct the problem. Less-invasive solutions include homeopathic options, such as herbal supplements.

Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), these supplements are comprised of a proprietary blend of herbs and other ingredients that work in concert to provide overall bodily health. Instead of simply targeting one issue at a time, the supplements take a holistic approach to the body and work on the fundamental causes of seemingly separate issues.

Creating a Journal

Documenting cases of nocturia and when urinary frequency is at its worst can help experts develop a treatment plan.

Questions a doctor may ask:

* When did symptoms begin?

* Is there an increase in the amount or change in the color of urine?

* How often are bathroom visits made?

* Have there been changes in your diet?

* How often do you drink caffeinated or alcoholic beverages?

* Have you had a recent bladder infection?

* Are you pregnant?

* What medications are you taking?

Nocturia is the frequent need to visit the bathroom at night. It is not to be confused with bedwetting or leakage of urine. This condition can adversely affect the health of individuals by causing broken sleep and subsequent daytime drowsiness and irritability. Seeking a treatment option quickly can put people on the road to a more restful night's sleep.

By MS