Nocturia—the need to wake up several times at night to urinate—affects about 50 million Americans. Women often notice it before age 50,
while men experience it more after 60. Though it may seem like a small nuisance, nocturia disrupts deep sleep and impacts overall health.
The condition occurs when the body produces excess urine at night. One cause may be reduced levels of antidiuretic hormone (ADH),
which usually slows urine production during sleep. Without enough restorative REM sleep—the stage where ADH works
best—the body may behave as if it’s daytime, triggering more awakenings.
Other contributors include overactive bladder, prostate changes, or chronic health conditions.
Missing REM sleep doesn’t only lead to fatigue; it can also affect memory, mood, and long-term well-being.
The good news: lifestyle changes can help. Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol, keeping regular sleep routines, avoiding late meals, and creating
a calming bedtime environment often reduce symptoms. If nocturia continues despite these steps, a healthcare professional should be consulted.
Ultimately, those nightly bathroom trips may be more than an inconvenience—they can signal important
insights about your body’s needs and highlight the value of prioritizing healthy, uninterrupted sleep.
