Pissing at night

[AnnoyedGrunt]

Dr Steve,

Over the past couple weeks I've noticed that I've woken up every single night to take a piss. In the past it has happened every once and a while but now it's an every night occurrence. I'm not drinking any more than usual and I haven't noticed an increased number of bathroom visits during the day either. I'm 26 years old, is this anything to be concerned about or is it just an annoyance?

[Dr Steve]

Dr Steve,

Over the past couple weeks I've noticed that I've woken up every single night to take a piss. In the past it has happened every once and a while but now it's an every night occurrence. I'm not drinking any more than usual and I haven't noticed an increased number of bathroom visits during the day either. I'm 26 years old, is this anything to be concerned about or is it just an annoyance?


When we hear about someone all of a sudden having to piss at night, we usually start thinking about prostate problems. One of the hallmark symptoms of prostate enlargement is "nocturia", or nighttime pissing.

Now, you're a little young (a LOT young, actually) to have regular-old enlargement of the prostate (this occurs in all men as they get older, some get symptoms, some don't...it usually starts in the 50's though), so I'd venture a guess that you may have an infection of the prostate. It could also just be some inflammation from this, that or the other, as well.

Non-prostate things that can cause nocturia include sleep apnea and elevated blood sugar.

Since this has gone on for more than just a couple of days, I'd get it checked out. Any family doc, or FNP or PA can check this for you. You'll probably get the Tippy Tom Treatment (prostate exam...lasts 10 seconds at most, don't worry about it), a urine test, and a quick fingerstick. If you're overweight, a sleep study might be indicated as well.

All of the above could be complete balderdash (bladderdash?) and it may be simply...nothing.


hope this helps



your friend,



steve