Nocturia, of clinical importance

摘要

Nocturia is a common symptom with multiple potential underlying pathophysio-logic mechanisms, some of which may be associated with life-threatening consequences [l]. As defined by the International Continence Society, nocturia is the "complaint that the individual has to wake at night one or more times to void" [2]. NoCturia has high prevalence, diverse etiology and is of clinical importance.The detrimental impact of nocturia is thought to be associated with sleep fragmentation and is related to sleep status rather than nocturnal voiding [3]. Interestingly, the sleep fragmentation coupled with nocturia can lead to other sequelae such as reduced quality of life (QoL), mood disturbance, reduced productivity at work, diminished overall health and increased falls and fractures [4]. Nocturia has also been linked to coronary heart disease and mortality [5]. In addition, nocturia has been associated with depression, endocrine, immune and metabolic disorders, as well as increased overall mortality in the frail, elderly population [4]. Given the severe potential consequences, the complaint of nocturia should be a critical part of the clinical evaluation of a patient's lower urinary tract symptoms.