I get up four or five times a night to go to the bathroom. Is this normal for a 74-year-old woman? I take a diuretic in the morning as well as a heart pill and baby asprin. I am a little overweight. Would any of this contribute to having to urinate so frequently throughout the night?
It sounds like you may have overactive bladder, which is a common and treatable syndrome. You should see your doctor for an evaluation including a urine check to rule out any infection. You need to keep a bladder diary including how much you drink and when you void (urinate). These tips can also help:
- Timed voiding
- Avoiding bladder irritants
- Treating vulvovaginal thinning
- Reducing fluid intake after 7pm
- Weight loss
- Daily Kegel exercises
Sometimes medications may be needed.
Remember, with your doctor’s help, YOU can control your bladder instead of your bladder controlling you.
All My Best,
Speaking of Women's Health Nurse
October 8, 2013 at 9:46am