Frequent Urination: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Frequent Urination: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello： Urination is a complex situation. <br>1. <br>Should I accumulate a certain level of urgency before urinating, or should I hold it a bit longer? --> Personally, I suggest that if the situation allows, such as during class, you can hold it; however, if you are at home and fe

Frequent urination issues?

Hello, doctor.
I am currently 20 years old and have been experiencing frequent urination for over a week.
I would like to ask about a condition I found online, which suggests that urethritis could cause frequent urination.
However, I do not have any other symptoms besides the frequent urination.
I have tried to drink less water and limit my beverage intake, but my urine output remains high.
I often feel a sense of residual fullness.
Should I wait until I have a stronger urge to urinate, or should I go as soon as I feel the need? I am concerned that if I hold it in too long, it might lead to a smaller bladder, so I tend to wait about two hours before going again.
When I am focused on tasks, I sometimes forget about the urge to urinate.
Should I see a doctor? I worry that it might just be a psychological issue, but it has persisted for over a week.
Thank you, doctor.
To summarize my questions: 1.
Should I wait until I have a stronger urge to urinate, or is it better to hold it for a while? 2.
What possible conditions could be causing this, given that I have no other symptoms? 3.
Should I see a doctor, or are there any methods to improve this situation?

nan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/24

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Urination is a complex situation.
1.
Should I accumulate a certain level of urgency before urinating, or should I hold it a bit longer? --> Personally, I suggest that if the situation allows, such as during class, you can hold it; however, if you are at home and feel the urge, you can go ahead and urinate.
If the urine volume is less than 100cc, you might want to hold it a bit longer before going.
2.
Could this be caused by any diseases, even though I have no other symptoms? --> Besides your bladder, factors such as diet, beverages, medications, or physical activity can temporarily affect urination.
3.
Do I need to see a doctor, or are there any improvement methods? --> If there is no pain during urination and it occurs only occasionally, I personally recommend finding time to see a doctor, but it is not urgent.
However, if it happens daily, you should seek medical attention.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2024/04/24

More Info

Frequent urination can be a concerning symptom, especially when it persists for more than a week. At 20 years old, it's understandable to be worried about what might be causing this issue. Let's break down your questions and concerns.

1. Should I wait until I have a strong urge to urinate, or should I go when I feel the need?
It is generally advisable to respond to your body's signals. Holding urine for extended periods can lead to discomfort and may even contribute to bladder issues over time. The bladder is a muscular organ that can stretch to accommodate urine, but consistently holding it for too long may lead to a decreased sensitivity to the urge to urinate. Instead of trying to hold it for long periods, aim to urinate when you feel the need, but also try to establish a routine that allows you to empty your bladder regularly, such as every 2-3 hours.

2. What could be causing my frequent urination without other symptoms?
There are several potential causes for frequent urination, even in the absence of other symptoms. Some possibilities include:
- Overactive bladder: This condition can cause a frequent urge to urinate, often without a significant amount of urine in the bladder.

- Urinary tract infection (UTI): While you mentioned not having other symptoms, some UTIs can present with minimal symptoms, especially in the early stages.

- Diabetes: Increased urination can be a sign of diabetes, particularly if accompanied by increased thirst or hunger.

- Prostatitis: In younger males, inflammation of the prostate can lead to urinary symptoms.

- Anxiety or stress: Psychological factors can also manifest as physical symptoms, including frequent urination.

3. Should I see a doctor, and what can I do to improve my situation?
Given that your symptoms have persisted for over a week, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, urinalysis, and possibly other tests to determine the underlying cause of your frequent urination. Early intervention can help prevent potential complications or worsening of the condition.

In the meantime, here are some general tips that may help:
- Stay hydrated: While it might seem counterintuitive, drinking adequate water can help flush out your urinary system and may reduce irritation.

- Avoid irritants: Caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can irritate the bladder and may exacerbate symptoms.

- Practice bladder training: Gradually increase the time between bathroom visits to help retrain your bladder.

- Manage stress: If anxiety is a factor, consider relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

In summary, while it’s normal to have concerns about frequent urination, especially at your age, it’s important to listen to your body and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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