Frequent Urination: Causes, Concerns, and Solutions

Frequent urination has troubled me for many years..?

Hello, Doctor: I've been troubled by frequent urination for many years, needing to urinate approximately every 20 minutes.
It takes a long time to void, and sometimes I feel like I haven't completely emptied my bladder, especially under external pressure, like in work situations.
Sometimes, even during intercourse with my girlfriend, I feel the urge to urinate when I am erect, which is really frustrating.
I feel embarrassed to tell my girlfriend about this issue and wonder what she would think.
I know I've been lazy about going to the hospital, which is why I've delayed seeking help for so long.
Three years ago, I visited a doctor who happened to be available and performed some tests.
It seemed like she inserted something into my rectum and turned it around, which resulted in an X-ray image; I'm not sure what kind of examination that was.
My urine showed no infection, but the doctor mentioned that my prostate was slightly inflamed.
I'm not clear on the details; can I request to take my medical records home? Also, this issue doesn't affect me at night while I sleep, only during the day.
Additionally, I have obsessive-compulsive disorder, which has caused me to be easily distracted while studying for the past 15 years.
Although I eventually managed to pass the civil service exam through a lot of pain, studying and learning still feel very difficult for me.
I also sometimes experience hand tremors.
Doctor, please help me.

A-Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/19

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

It's really...! I can't say you're pitiful; at least you sleep well at night.
In fact, you have some understanding of your situation, but you just can't seem to find a way out.
Consider talking to a psychiatrist or your friends.

Reply Date: 2005/03/19

More Info

Frequent urination can be a distressing condition that affects many aspects of daily life, and it often comes with a variety of underlying causes and psychological implications. Based on your description, it seems that your frequent urination is exacerbated by external pressures, such as work-related stress and personal relationships, which can lead to anxiety and discomfort.

Understanding Frequent Urination
Frequent urination, or polyuria, is defined as the need to urinate more often than usual. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
1. Medical Conditions: Conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), diabetes, prostate issues, and bladder disorders can lead to increased urination. In your case, the mention of mild prostate inflammation could be a contributing factor.

2. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can significantly impact urinary habits. The fear of needing to urinate in social situations or during intimate moments can create a cycle of anxiety that exacerbates the urge to urinate.

3. Lifestyle Factors: High fluid intake, especially caffeine and alcohol, can increase urination frequency. Additionally, certain medications can have diuretic effects.

Psychological Implications
Your experience of feeling the urge to urinate during intimate moments or while under stress indicates a possible psychological component to your condition. Anxiety can manifest in physical symptoms, including increased urinary frequency. The pressure you feel in social situations, such as being with your girlfriend, can trigger this response, leading to a cycle of anxiety and frequent urination.

Addressing Your Concerns
1. Medical Evaluation: Since you have a history of prostate inflammation and have undergone tests, it is crucial to follow up with a urologist for a comprehensive evaluation. This may include tests to assess bladder function and rule out any underlying conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

2. Managing Anxiety: Given your mention of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive tendencies, it may be beneficial to consult a mental health professional. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in addressing anxiety-related issues and can help you develop coping strategies for managing stress and the associated urinary symptoms.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Consider keeping a diary of your fluid intake and urination patterns. This can help identify any triggers or patterns that may be contributing to your symptoms. Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake may also help alleviate frequent urination.

4. Communication: It’s understandable to feel embarrassed about discussing these issues with your girlfriend. However, open communication can foster understanding and support. Sharing your concerns may alleviate some of the pressure you feel during intimate moments.

5. Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help manage anxiety and reduce the frequency of urination related to stress.

Conclusion
Frequent urination can be a complex issue that intertwines physical and psychological factors. It is essential to address both the medical and emotional aspects of your condition. By seeking appropriate medical care, exploring therapeutic options for anxiety, and making lifestyle adjustments, you can work towards alleviating your symptoms and improving your quality of life. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are professionals who can help guide you through these challenges.

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