We are always advised to meet our fluid needs of 2.5 liters to keep the body hydrated. Drinking a lot of water can encourage a person to urinate. But, there is a condition that makes a person urinate in quantities that exceed normal limits, namely polyuria.
Polyuria can interfere with activities because it requires the patient to go back and forth to the toilet to urinate in large quantities. In addition, polyuria also indicates health problems in anyone. Especially in the elderly over 70 years old to pregnant women. Well, we will discuss polyuria in more detail such as what causes, symptoms and how to deal with it. Check out the following.
What is Polyuria?
Polyuria is a medical condition characterized by the production of excessive amounts of urine. Adults usually produce about 3 liters of urine per day. Those with polyuria can pass up to 15 liters per day.
Some other conditions make you need to urinate more frequently, such as an overactive bladder, an enlarged prostate and urinary tract infections. These conditions can make you feel like you need to urinate constantly, even though your bladder is not filling up much. However, polyuria makes you have to urinate more frequently as your body produces more urine.
Causes of Polyuria
The condition of frequent urination due to drinking too much is not a medical problem. However, as quoted from the Cleveland Clinic, there are several medical causes experienced by someone who suffers from polyuria or excessive urine production:
1. Urinary tract infection (UTI)
Urinary tract infections, which are usually caused by bacteria, can irritate the bladder and cause increased urine production. UTIs are often accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or burning sensation when urinating.
2. Type 1 and 2 Diabetes
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are common causes of polyuria. High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to work harder to filter and remove excess sugar through urine, resulting in excessive urine production.
3. Diabetes Insipidus
Diabetes insipidus is a rare condition caused by an imbalance in the antidiuretic hormone (ADH) that regulates fluid balance in the body. This causes the kidneys to be unable to reabsorb water, resulting in a lot of watery urine.
4. Kidney Disease
Various kidney diseases, such as kidney failure or glomerulonephritis, can affect the kidneys' ability to filter blood efficiently, which can lead to polyuria.
5. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, especially in the first and last trimester, many women experience polyuria due to hormonal changes and pressure on the bladder by the enlarged uterus.
6. Liver Disease
Liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, can cause fluid retention in the body and increase urine production in response to fluid imbalance.
7. Certain Medicines
Some medications, especially diuretics used to treat high blood pressure or edema, can increase urine production. Other medications that can cause polyuria include lithium and some types of antibiotics.
Symptoms of Polyuria
The main symptom of polyuria is an increase in the amount of urine excreted. This is often accompanied by additional symptoms depending on the underlying cause, such as:
- Excessive thirst
- Dehydration
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Increased frequency of urination, including at night (nocturia)
- Discomfort or pain when urinating (if caused by infection)
Polyuria Treatment and Prevention
The treatment of polyuria depends on the underlying cause. Here are some steps that can be taken to manage and prevent polyuria:
- Train the bladder to hold urine longer and decrease the frequency of urination.
- Drink enough water to prevent constipation and excessive urine.
- Avoid foods that can irritate the bladder such as caffeine, alcohol, salt, spicy foods and artificial sweeteners.
- Consult your doctor regarding the use of medications that may cause polyuria and look for alternatives if possible.
By understanding the causes and symptoms of polyuria and taking appropriate steps, you can overcome polyuria and better manage this condition and prevent more serious complications. (Aq/PRT)
