Is Frequent Urination Linked to Kidney Health Issues?

Is there a relationship between frequent urination and the kidneys?

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing frequent urination, more than 8 times a day, with each voiding around 50, 100, or 150 ml, and sometimes it can reach 200 ml.
The color of my urine is deep yellow in the morning, but it is close to light yellow or slightly transparent throughout the day, overall less than before.
Additionally, I have muscle spasms in my lips, hands, arms, thighs, and face.
I read some health articles online that suggest frequent urination could be a sign of chronic kidney failure.
However, when I consulted a urologist, they said that frequent urination is not related to the kidneys.

Ya-Hsun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/20

Dr. Lin Wuxuan reply Internal Medicine

Hello, Yaxun.
If the frequency of urination increases, it could indeed indicate a problem with the kidneys.
However, it may also be due to excessive fluid intake or psychological factors such as anxiety and stress leading to psychogenic polydipsia.
Other potential causes include cystitis, urethritis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and diabetes mellitus.
It is advisable to keep a record of urination times, frequency, and volume, which can be provided to a urologist or nephrologist for further evaluation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2022/08/20

More Info

Frequent urination can indeed be a concerning symptom, and it is understandable that you are worried about its potential link to kidney health issues. However, it is important to note that frequent urination can arise from a variety of causes, and not all of them are directly related to kidney function.

Firstly, frequent urination, defined as needing to urinate more than eight times in a 24-hour period, can be caused by several factors. These include urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder irritants (such as caffeine or alcohol), diabetes mellitus, and even certain medications. In your case, the volume of urine you mentioned (50-200 ml per void) suggests that you may not be experiencing true polyuria, which is defined as excessive urination with high volumes. Instead, your symptoms may indicate a condition such as overactive bladder or bladder irritation.

Your mention of muscle twitching and spasms in various parts of your body is also noteworthy. While these symptoms can be unrelated, they may indicate an electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, or even anxiety, which can sometimes accompany urinary symptoms. It is essential to consider these symptoms holistically, as they may provide clues to underlying health issues.

Regarding your concern about chronic kidney disease (CKD), it is true that frequent urination can be a symptom of kidney problems, particularly in the later stages of the disease. However, it is not a definitive indicator of kidney health on its own. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, and when they are not functioning properly, it can lead to changes in urination patterns. However, your urologist's assessment that your frequent urination is not related to kidney function is significant. They likely conducted tests to evaluate your kidney health, such as blood tests for creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), as well as urinalysis.

If you are still concerned about your kidney health, it may be beneficial to follow up with a nephrologist (kidney specialist) for further evaluation. They can perform more specific tests to assess your kidney function and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In summary, while frequent urination can be linked to kidney health issues, it is not the only cause, and many other factors can contribute to this symptom. It is essential to consider the full clinical picture, including your other symptoms, and to work closely with your healthcare providers to determine the best course of action. If you have ongoing concerns or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health and well-being are paramount, and it is crucial to address any issues that may arise promptly.

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