Why Do I Feel the Urge to Urinate Frequently?

Does it seem like you spend most of your time in the bathroom or rushing to get there? Frequent urination is a common challenge for many adults, especially as they age. Take a moment to learn why it happens.

Frequent urination means passing urine more than eight times over 24 hours. If that sounds like you, you're not alone. At Urology Specialists of Cypress in Cypress, Texas, board-certified urologist Dr. James Stocks is an esteemed expert in urinary frequency and its underlying causes.

Dr. Stocks grew up in Texas and is honored to help his fellow Texans find solutions for frustrating and inconvenient problems like frequent urination.

Our patients often ask why they're suddenly feeling the need to urinate so frequently, and we have the answers. Dr. Stocks conducts comprehensive medical and lifestyle assessments to uncover the causes and find effective treatment strategies.

Here are some of the most common reasons for frequent urinary urges.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

UTIs are the leading cause of frequent urination. They happen when bacteria in the urinary tract cause irritation, leading to a strong urge to urinate more frequently.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH, or an enlarged prostate gland, can irritate the bladder wall, causing thickening that leads to more frequent bladder contractions. As the prostate grows bigger, it can narrow the urethra, making it harder to empty the bladder and triggering the urge to urinate more frequently.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones can trigger the urge to urinate frequently when they move into the ureter (urine tube). This partially blocks urine flow and increases bladder sensitivity, increasing the urge to urinate even when there’s very little urine to eliminate.

Diabetes

High blood sugar levels force the kidneys to work harder to filter excess glucose, which increases urine production and the urge to urinate. This is why frequent urination is often an early sign of diabetes. Poorly managed diabetes can also lead to nerve damage in the bladder, worsening urinary symptoms.

When to seek help with frequent urinary urges

Occasional extra bathroom trips aren’t always a cause for concern. It might mean you've been drinking tons of water, for example. However, if frequent urinary urges affect your daily life, or if it feels like you spend way too much time worrying about getting to the bathroom, it's time to see Dr. Stocks for an evaluation.

By determining the root cause of your frequent urination, Dr. Stocks can prescribe a personalized approach to help you get back to normal.

You can manage frequent urination

You don’t have to accept frequent urination as a normal part of life. At Urology Specialists of Cypress, we're ready to help you regain control and reclaim your life. Call our Cypress, Texas, office today at 281-304-2521 to book your appointment.