If you find yourself waking up in the middle of the night multiple times just to use the bathroom you may have nocturia. Nocturia is a condition that causes you to get out of bed just to urinate a couple of times in just one night, and here are tips to avoid frequent urination at night.
1. Limit fluid intake 2 hours before bedtime
Keep track of your fluid intake especially before going to bed. Limit yourself from drinking fluids 2 hours before bedtime. Start a bladder diary so you can jot down your fluid intake not only at night but also during the day. This diary may also help you when you visit the doctor because he can use it for the diagnosis.
2. Check if you have sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition in which your breathing stops and restarts numerous times while you sleep. This is a serious condition because it can prevent your body from getting enough oxygen.
3. Elevate your legs during the daytime
The fluid that builds up in your ankle and legs during the day is sent back to your bloodstream when you lie down at night. This increases your blood pressure and as an outcome, your kidneys create more urine
because it will start working overtime.
If your legs or ankles get swollen during the day try elevating them occasionally to avoid the build-up of fluid in the ankles and calves.
4. Practice good sleep hygiene
Make sure to practice good sleep hygiene to help encourage your body’s natural clock. Follow the National Sleep Foundation’s tips for the best sleep hygiene routine.
5. Talk to your doctor
The tips stated above may be of help but it’s always a great idea to seek professional advice in order to verify if you’re really experiencing nocturia. Nocturia sometimes has hidden causes that’s why it’s important to have a thorough checkup done by a doctor to eliminate any other conditions.
