Urinary frequency/urgency

Alternative names:

changes in frequency of urinating; frequent urination; urgent need to urinate

Definition:

Increased urinary frequency refers to an increase in how often a person needs to urinate. Increased urgency is the sudden, compelling urge to urinate, accompanied by discomfort in the bladder.

Considerations:

Increase in urinary frequency often accompanies an increase in the total daily urinary output.

Increased urinary frequency and urgency are both classic signs of urinary tract infection. As inflammation decreases the bladder's capacity, even small amounts of urine cause discomfort.

Common causes:

• excessive fluid intake
• urinary tract infection
• prostatitis (infected or inflamed prostate gland)
• pregnancy
• radiation therapy
• diabetes

Note: There may be other causes of urinary frequency/urgency. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for urinary frequency/urgency, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.