Why Am I Suddenly Running to the Bathroom More Often?

Have you noticed an increase in the number of bathroom trips you take per day? While everyone’s natural routine is different, a sudden change could indicate a more serious underlying condition.

At Urology Associates Medical Group, we specialize in providing comprehensive solutions for patients with urinary issues, including frequent urination. Our experienced team, under the direction of Philip Weintraub, MD, offers effective treatments to help you regain control of your bladder, so you can live life on your own terms.

Are you suddenly running to the bathroom more often? Let’s take a look at what it could mean for your urinary health.

What frequent urination is telling you

The average person urinates approximately seven or eight times per day. If you’re drinking lots of fluids, or taking certain medications, you may even need to go more often than that. 

The most important thing is what’s normal for you. If frequent urination is disrupting your sleep or daily activities, it may be due to one of these conditions:

Urinary tract infection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common culprits behind frequent bathroom breaks. They occur when bacteria enters the urinary tract and infects the bladder, urethra, and/or kidneys.

Besides frequent urination, symptoms of a UTI may include:

• Burning or pain during urination
• Cloudy or bloody urine
• Needing to urinate even when your bladder is empty
• Pelvic pain or pressure

If you suspect you have a UTI, call us at Urology Associates Medical Group as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. While it’s a common condition, a UTI can lead to serious complications if it spreads to your kidneys.

Overactive bladder syndrome

Overactive bladder is a condition characterized by frequent urination, urgency to urinate, and sometimes incontinence. Multiple factors can contribute to overactive bladder, such as:

• Excess muscle activity in the bladder
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes
• Hormonal changes
• Excessive alcohol or caffeine intake
• Certain medications

Treatment for overactive bladder may vary depending on the individual situation. Options can include medication, nerve stimulation therapy, pelvic floor physical therapy, or surgery.

Enlarged prostate

An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a condition in men that occurs when the prostate gland increases in size, putting pressure on the urethra. 

While BPH isn’t a dangerous condition, it can cause discomfort and frequent urination. Other indicators of an enlarged prostate include:

• Hesitancy or straining to begin urinating
• Weak urine flow
• Dribbling after urinating
• Inability to fully empty the bladder

If you have an enlarged prostate, medications like alpha blockers can improve urinary flow. But if your symptoms are severe, surgical intervention may be necessary to reduce the size of the prostate.

Interstitial cystitis

If bladder pain or discomfort accompanies frequent urination, you may have interstitial cystitis. Patients with this chronic condition often experience symptoms that flare up in response to certain triggers, like menstruation, sexual activity, stress, exercise, or prolonged sitting. 

These symptoms may include:

• Pelvic pain or pressure, either constant or intermittent
• Pain or discomfort in the perineal region (between genitals and anus)
• Persistent urgency to urinate, especially at night (nocturia)
• Pain during intercourse

While there’s no cure for interstitial cystitis, treatments such as medication, nerve stimulation, and physical therapy can help you manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life.

The solution for frequent urination

We understand that frequent urination can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing symptom. At Urology Associates Medical Group, we’re dedicated to providing our patients with compassionate, attentive care.

Don’t let frequent urination disrupt your daily life. Take control of your urinary health and seek the help you need. Call our Burbank, California, office today to schedule a consultation with Urology Associates Medical Group.