Nocturia as a marker of poor health: Causal associations to inform care

Nocturia and frailty in older adults: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

More than one in two older people wake up several times a night to urinate. Far from being a minor inconvenience, nocturia is associated with poor health outcomes. Given the importance of sleep as a foundation for resilience and healthy ageing, nocturia may promote the development of frailty, which is inextricably linked to physical decline, disability, and mortality. The aim of this scoping review was to collate published evidence on the relationship between nocturia and frailty, using the methodological framework of Arksey and O'Malley, together with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology as guidance (OSF registration: osf.io/d5ct7).

METHODS

Relevant publications were retrieved via PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Google Scholar. The Rayyan tool was used to facilitate the screening process. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers. 250 publications were initially identified, of which 87 met the eligibility criteria.

RESULTS

Most of the evidence came from cross-sectional studies, most of which had been published within the last 5 years. The researchers were diverse, with 27% having a geriatric background. Only few publications established a clear association between nocturia and frailty. Other topics included: the association between nocturia and poor sleep quality and duration; the association between sleep and frailty; the association between frailty, multimorbidity, and age-related changes in the lower urinary tract.

CONCLUSION

The findings emphasize the increasing interest and interdisciplinary nature of research into the relationship between frailty, nocturia, lower urinary tract symptoms, and sleep disturbances. Further research is required to enhance understanding, establish causality, and identify potential therapeutic approaches.

Lifelong LUTS: Understanding the bladder's role and implications across transition phases, a comprehensive review

INTRODUCTION

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) are a diverse array of urinary and pelvic dysfunctions that can emerge from childhood, extend through adulthood, and persist into older age. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on the continuum of LUTS and shed light on the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications that span across the lower urinary tract.

METHODS

A panel of five experts from Belgium, the Netherlands, India, Denmark, and the United States participated in an intensive research to explore and pinpoint existing insights into the lifelong concept of LUTS, particularly at the pelvic level. The experts reviewed the existing literature and held a webinar to discuss their findings.

RESULTS

Childhood LUTS can persist, resolve, or progress into bladder underactivity, dysfunctional voiding, or pain syndromes. The Lifelong character can be explained by pelvic organ cross-talk facilitated through complex neurological and nonneurological interactions. At the molecular level, the role of vasopressin receptors in the bladder's modulation and their potential relevance to therapeutic strategies for LUTS are explored. Frailty emerges as a parallel concept to lifelong LUTS, with a complex and synergistic relationship. Frailty, not solely an age-related condition, accentuates LUTS severity with insufficient evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety profile of the available therapeutic modalities.

CONCLUSION

Understanding lifelong LUTSs offers insights into genetic, anatomical, neurological, and molecular mechanisms. Further research could identify predictive biomarkers, elucidate the role of clinically translatable elements in pelvic cross-talk, and uncover molecular signatures for personalized management.

Determinants of Bladder Care at Night in a Subacute Ward for Aged Patients: An Observational Study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate how bladder care at night correlates to patients' mobility status.

DESIGN

This was an observational study.

SUBJECTS AND SETTING

The sample comprises 63 aged care subacute patients who were observed over 3 consecutive nights in an inpatient subacute aged care ward located in Melbourne, Australia. Half of the participants were female; their mean age was 82.0 (standard deviation 8.2) years. Data were collected from December 2020 to March 2021.

METHODS

Outcome variables included demographic and pertinent clinical characteristics, type and timing of toileting and/or bladder care provided, and mobility classification. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the frequency of nocturnal bladder care provided each night and as a mean over the 3 nights. The relationship between the type of care units provided and other variables was explored using a 1-way analysis of variance; values ≤.05 were deemed statistically significant.

RESULTS

Findings indicate that 27% (n = 17), 41% (n = 26), and 48% (n = 30) of participants required assistance to move in bed, sit up in bed, and stand from sitting, respectively. Care episodes for both incontinence and assistance with voiding were significantly associated with functional mobility in bed ( F = 5.52, P < .001; F = 2.14, P = .02) and with ambulation independence ( F = 3.52, P = .001; F = 2.04, P = .03) but not with age or ambulation distance.

CONCLUSIONS

Care provided for urinary incontinence during the night was related to the need for physical support of ambulation and poor mobility in bed. Targeted input from a multidisciplinary team is warranted to facilitate change of practice at night.

Analysis of changes in the pathophysiology of nocturia according to the number of nocturia episode, age, and gender using frequency volume charts: A retrospective observational study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the pathophysiology of nocturia based on the frequency volume chart, and determine the risk factors for nocturia occurring ≥2 times per night.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, we reviewed 311 patients with complaints of nocturia from January 2017 to February 2019 at our institution. Nocturnal polyuria (NP) and global polyuria (GP) were defined as NP index >0.35 regardless of age and 24 h urine volume >2.5 L/day, respectively. Decreased bladder capacity (dBC) was when the maximal voided volume was <325 mL. Decreased nocturnal bladder capacity (dNBC) was defined as nocturnal bladder capacity index >0.

RESULTS

In total, 273 patients were included in the primary analyses. Of 802 days from 273 frequency volume charts, the median number of nocturia was 1 episode per day. Further, NP (odds ratios [OR] 7.01), GP (OR 4.25), dBC (OR 3.00), dNBC (OR 10.12), and age (OR 1.04) had the association with nocturia ≥2 times per night. There was a significant stepwise increase in NP, dNBC, dBC, and GP with the number of nocturia episodes. As patient age increased, the likelihood of NP (P < 0.001) and dBC (P < 0.001) being the cause for nocturia tended to increase, but that of dNBC (P = 0.022) and nocturia without cause (P = 0.007) tended to decrease. Moreover, dBC was more likely to cause nocturia in female patients than in male patients (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

NP, dBC, dNBC, and GP are important factors involved in the pathophysiology of nocturia occurring ≥2 times per night.

The association between nocturia, hormonal symptoms and bladder parameters in women: an observational study

OBJECTIVE

Postmenopausal nocturia is poorly understood. This study aimed to identify hormonal and lifestyle factors associated with nocturia and to understand the relative contribution of altered urine production and bladder storage dysfunction in women.

DESIGN, SETTING, POPULATION AND METHODS

Women ≥40 years presenting to public continence services were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. A total of 153 participants completed a hormone status questionnaire, a validated nocturia causality screening tool and a 3-day bladder diary. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models for nocturia severity and bladder diary parameters were computed.

RESULTS

Overall, 91.5% reported nocturia, 55% ≥2 /night. There was a difference of 167.5 ml (P < 0.001) in nocturnal urine volume between women with nocturia ≥2 (median 736 ml) versus less often (517 ml). Significant predictors of self-reported disruptive nocturia were age (odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% CI 1.002-1.073) and vitamin D supplementation (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.11-4.91). Nocturnal polyuria was significantly more common with nocturia ≥2 compared with less frequent nocturia (P < 0.002). Exercise for 150 minutes a week was protective for nocturnal polyuria (OR 0.22, P = 0.001). Nocturia index >1.3 was significantly predicted by age (OR 1.07, P < 0.001), regular exercise (OR 0.41, P = 0.036), day flushes (OR 4.00, P = 0.013) and use of vitamin D (OR 2.34, P = 0.043). Maximum voided volumes were significantly lower with nocturia ≥2 versus less often (night: 268 ml versus 350 ml; day: 200 ml versus 290 ml).

CONCLUSIONS

Bothersome nocturia in postmenopausal women is associated with changes to both nocturnal diuresis and bladder storage. Regular physical activity, prolapse reduction and oestrogen replacement may be adjunctive in managing bothersome nocturia in women.

Circadian rhythms and renal pathophysiology

The reality of life in modern times is that our internal circadian rhythms are often out of alignment with the light/dark cycle of the external environment. This is known as circadian disruption, and a wealth of epidemiological evidence shows that it is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease remains the top cause of death in the United States, and kidney disease in particular is a tremendous public health burden that contributes to cardiovascular deaths. There is an urgent need for new treatments for kidney disease; circadian rhythm-based therapies may be of potential benefit. The goal of this Review is to summarize the existing data that demonstrate a connection between circadian rhythm disruption and renal impairment in humans. Specifically, we will focus on chronic kidney disease, lupus nephritis, hypertension, and aging. Importantly, the relationship between circadian dysfunction and pathophysiology is thought to be bidirectional. Here we discuss the gaps in our knowledge of the mechanisms underlying circadian dysfunction in diseases of the kidney. Finally, we provide a brief overview of potential circadian rhythm-based interventions that could provide benefit in renal disease.

The Bladder at Night during Hospitalisation: Towards optimal care for elderly patients with nocturia

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe the characteristics of nocturia in older hospitalised patients and to explore knowledge, beliefs and experiences associated with night toileting while in hospital in order to identify unmet care needs.

METHODS

A multisite mixed methods cross-sectional study of older hospitalised adults who were admitted for ≥2 days was conducted using a standardised researcher-administered questionnaire. An additional cohort 16 older hospitalised adults with nocturia >twice per night were interviewed to understand the experience and impact of nocturia during hospitalisation.

RESULTS

Nocturia was experienced by 260 out of 308 participants. In-hospital nocturia was significantly correlated with nocturia in the month preceding admission, high diurnal voiding frequency and nocturnal urinary urgency. Bother was attributed to multiple nocturia episodes. Participants had poor knowledge and understanding of nocturia and believed the symptom to be a normal occurrence; only 20% had discussed management with staff. Disrupted sleep and fear of falling were common in older immobile participants with nocturia.

CONCLUSION

Nocturia is highly prevalent in hospitalised older people. Toileting multiple times at night bothers patients, disrupts sleep, heightens a fear of falling yet is rarely addressed in ward management plans. A screening process to identify, assess, provide education and intervene for nocturia has the potential to improve wellbeing, safety at night and to address risk factors.

Wake-up call: 4 out of 5 older hospitalised patients have nocturnal lower urinary tract symptoms

OBJECTIVE

Nocturnal lower urinary tract symptoms (nLUTS) increase with age, frailty and comorbid systemic illness and affect many older people. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of nLUTS in a hospital aged-care sub-acute environment.

METHODS

Prospective clinical audit based on semi-structured bedside interviews of older adult patients admitted to a tertiary hospital aged rehabilitation ward over a 7-month period.

RESULTS

A total of 147 eligible patients were included in this clinical audit. The prevalence of nLUTS was 80% (76% nocturia; 54% nocturnal urgency; 32% nocturnal enuresis; 51% nocturnal incontinence). The incidence of any nLUTs was 37%. Half the sample reported daytime incontinence, which always co-existed with at least one nLUTS.

CONCLUSION

Nocturnal lower urinary tract symptoms are a problem for four out of five older hospitalised patients. This highlights the need to screen for nLUTS early in the hospital admission and for implementation of a multidisciplinary team intervention to decrease morbidity and improve quality of life in this vulnerable population.

Risk Factors Affecting Decreased Libido Among Middle-Aged to Elderly Men; Nocturnal Voiding is an Independent Risk Factor of Decreased Libido

Introduction

Decreased libido in middle-aged and elderly men is often difficult to treat, and identifying the risk factors affecting decreased libido is important for the clinical management of decreased libido. However, limited information is available regarding specific risk factors in this population.

Aim

The present study investigated the risk factors for decreased libido among middle-aged and elderly men.

Methods

Patients who attended our male andropausal outpatient clinic between 2009 and 2015 were enrolled. All patients completed a self-administered questionnaire, which included the Aging Male Symptoms (AMS) scale, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM). Information on waist size, body mass index, present illness, present use of any medication, and lifestyle habits were collected by each attending physician. Blood biochemical data such as free testosterone, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-Chol), and hemoglobin A1c values were assessed. Libido was assessed based on AMS scale question 17, and a score of 4 or higher was defined as severely decreased libido (severe group).

Main Outcome Measure

The clinical factors associated with severely decreased libido were analyzed based on multiple regression analysis.

Results

A total of 292 subjects were included in the analysis, 111 (38%) of which belonged to the severe group. The mean age of study subjects was 66.2 years, and the mean FT value was 7.1 ± 2.2. Comparisons of each variable among the severe and not severe groups showed significant differences in older age, current cigarette smoking, AMS scale, IPSS, frequency of nocturnal voiding, SHIM score, and HDL-Chol value. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that current cigarette smoking, frequent nocturnal voiding, and a low SHIM score were the independent risk factors for severely decreased libido. Furthermore, the frequency of nocturnal voiding significantly increased with severity of decreased libido.

Conclusion

Current cigarette smoking, frequent nocturnal voiding, and a low SHIM score were the independent risk factors for a severely low libido.

K Shigehara, Y Kato, M Iijima, et al. Risk Factors Affecting Decreased Libido Among Middle-Aged to Elderly Men; Nocturnal Voiding is an Independent Risk Factor of Decreased Libido. Sex Med 2021;9:100426.

Clinical manifestations and evaluation of postmenopausal vulvovaginal atrophy

INTRODUCTION

It is estimated that 50% of women will suffer a severe form of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) related to menopause. Equally, young women may temporarily present this clinical problem while receiving various pharmacological or endocrine treatments or radiotherapy.

AIM

To determine clinical and diagnostic exams required to confirm the presence of VVA (also referred to as atrophic vaginitis, urogenital atrophy, or genitourinary syndrome of menopause) and rule out other genital or pelvic clinical conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature review searches were carried out on the main scientific article search engines (PubMed, SciELO, Cochrane) using different clinical terms, treatments or interventions and comorbidity related to VVA.

RESULTS

The development and severity of VVA depend mainly on the duration of hypoestrogenism. Hypoestrogenism causes changes in the urogenital tissue, generating signs and symptoms, such as dryness, burning, soreness, itching, and irritation of the genital skin. The diagnosis can be made through anamnesis (patient history), questionnaires, physical exam, and, sometimes, complementary exams. Objective vaginal assessment is essential and can be completed with the Vaginal Health Index, the Vaginal Maturation Index, or vaginal pH in the absence of infection or semen. The exclusion of other vulvovaginal organic pathology is essential to reach an accurate diagnosis and provide adequate treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The specialist should be able to identify VVA, rule out other pathologies that make a differential diagnosis and conduct proper management.

Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and nocturia: a systematic review of the pathophysiological mechanisms

Nocturia significantly impairs quality of life, especially in the elderly population, and urinary retention is a main target of treatment for urologists. In addition to nocturia, cardiovascular diseases are common in the elderly population, and a systematic review showed that hypertension and heart failure are often associated with nocturia. One possible pathogenic mechanism underlying the development of hypertension is an increase in blood pressure due to excessive salt intake in people with high-salt sensitivity. From Guyton's natriuretic curve, we can infer that salt-sensitive hypertensive patients who consume too much salt do not excrete salt during the daytime and are forced to excrete salt at night, resulting in increased urine production and nocturia. In patients with heart failure, the nocturnal supine position leads to an increase in central fluid volume due to an increase in venous return from the periphery, and the secretion of natriuretic peptide is stimulated by the stretching of the atria and ventricles. Thus, natriuresis due to hypertension and hydrodiuresis due to heart failure may cause nocturia, which can effectively be treated by the administration of thiazide diuretics and loop diuretics in the morning, respectively. Because cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension and heart failure, can cause nocturia and because the treatment methods differ depending on the cause, it is necessary to pay close attention to nocturia in the management of lifestyle-related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease.

Decreased renal function increases the nighttime urine volume rate by carryover of salt excretion to the nighttime

To determine the pathophysiology of nocturnal polyuria associated with renal dysfunction, patients who underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy were prospectively studied. The diurnal variation in urine volume, osmolality, and salt excretion were measured on preoperative day 2 and postoperative day 7. The factors associated with an increase in the nighttime urine volume rate with decreased renal function were evaluated using multiple linear regression analysis. Forty-nine patients were included. The estimated glomerular filtration rate decreased from 73.3 ± 2.0 to 47.2 ± 1.6 mL/min/1.73 m² (P < 0.01) and the nighttime urine volume rate increased from 40.6% ± 2.0% to 45.3% ± 1.5% (P = 0.04) with nephrectomy. The nighttime urine osmolality decreased from 273 ± 15 to 212 ± 10 mOsm/kg and the nighttime salt excretion rate increased from 38.7% ± 2.1% to 48.8% ± 1.7% (both P < 0.01) with nephrectomy. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the increase in the nighttime urine volume rate was strongly affected by the increase in the nighttime salt excretion rate. A decrease in renal function causes an increase in the nighttime urine volume rate, mainly because of an increase in nighttime salt excretion.

Trial registration number: UMIN000036760 (University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry).

Date of registration: From 1 June 2019 to 31 October 2020.

Prevalence, Bother and Treatment Behavior Related to Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Overactive Bladder among Cardiology Patients

Purpose: The aim of this study was to measure, at the population level, the prevalence, bother, and treatment-related behavior for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) in a large cohort of cardiology patients. Methods: This report is a further analysis of data from LUTS POLAND, a computer-assisted telephone survey that reflected the entire Polish population, stratified by age, sex, and place of residence. LUTS and OAB were assessed by a standardized protocol, the International Continence Society definitions, and validated questionnaires. In addition, all participants provided information regarding their behavior as it related to LUTS treatment. Results: Overall, 6005 participants completed interviews, and 1835 (30.6%) had received treatment by cardiologists. The prevalence of LUTS was 73.3% for cardiology participants compared with 57.0% for respondents who were not treated by cardiologists (p < 0.001). There were no differences between men and women in LUTS prevalence for cardiology patients. Nocturia was the most prevalent LUTS. LUTS were often bothersome, and storage symptoms were more bothersome than voiding or postmicturition symptoms. The prevalence of OAB syndrome was 50.7% in cardiology patients, higher than in noncardiology participants (36.6%, p < 0.001), and more women were affected than men. Only one-third of cardiology patients who reported LUTS were seeking treatment for LUTS, and most of them received treatment. There were no differences between persons living in urban and rural areas. Conclusions: LUTS and OAB were highly prevalent among cardiology patients. Although LUTS were often bothersome in this unique population, we found that the seeking of treatment for LUTS was minimal. These results highlight the need for cooperation between cardiologists and urologists.

Dutch version of the TANGO nocturia screening tool: cross-culturally translation and reliability study in community-dwelling people and nursing home residents

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to translate and culturally adapt the self-administered screening instrument 'Targeting the individual's Aetiology of Nocturia to Guide Outcomes' (TANGO) into Dutch for Belgium and to assess its test-retest reliability. Methods: This study has a cross-sectional, descriptive study design. Cross-cultural adaption of TANGO into Dutch for Belgium was performed according to a standardized method. Convenience samples of community-dwelling people and NH residents with nocturia (≥1void/night) completed TANGO-D at baseline and 1-2 weeks later. Community-dwelling people filled in the questionnaire at home and the NH residents were interviewed by a study nurse. Results: TANGO-D was completed by 33 community-dwelling middle-aged people and 45 NH residents. Completeness of responses was adequate in both populations and almost all items had positive and negative answers. In the NH residents, 12 out of 22 items required clarification, wherein five items adjustments are essential. Test-retest reliability analysis revealed an overall median Kappa of .75 [IQR: .78-1] in community-dwelling people and .54 [IQR: .31-.65] in NH residents, confirming substantial and moderate agreement, respectively. Conclusion: TANGO-D is a cross-cultural adapted Dutch translation of the original TANGO and showed good test-retest reliability in community-dwelling middle-aged people. However, validation of TANGO is required before use in clinical practice and the addition of a module of environment-related items to extend the utility of the instrumentwhen used in NH is desirable.

Nocturia: The Complex Role of the Heart, Kidneys, and Bladder

We review the role of the heart, kidneys, and bladder in the pathophysiology of nocturia and nocturnal polyuria. Lower urinary tract symptoms such as nocturia have often been associated with lower urinary tract dysfunction. It is known that the bladder contributes to nocturia in the case of low functional capacity, urgency, and detrusor overactivity. Heart diseases, especially arterial hypertension and congestive heart failure, are closely related to nocturnal polyuria. The main mechanisms include renal hyperfiltration and elevated atrial natriuretic peptide. A number of drugs frequently used in cardiovascular disorders are implicated in nocturia; diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and β-blockers induce nocturnal polyuria and thus nocturia, whereas alpha-blockers improve nocturia. Among the different forms of hypertension, nondipping arterial hypertension has been associated with a higher risk of nocturnal polyuria. Besides the role of the kidneys in nocturia linked to arterial hypertension, chronic kidney disease is an independent predictor of nocturia through an osmotic diuresis mechanism. Some evidence suggests a close relationship between the heart (nondipping arterial hypertension), kidneys (chronic kidney disease), and nocturia/nocturnal polyuria. These complex interactions between the heart, kidneys, and bladder warrant a multidisciplinary approach in patients with nocturia. PATIENT SUMMARY: We review the different mechanisms that lead to nocturia and nocturnal polyuria. The complex interactions between the heart, the kidneys, and the bladder warrant a multidisciplinary approach in patients with nocturia. Careful investigation of the cause of nocturia can improve its management.

Toileting-related falls at night in hospitalised patients: The role of nocturia

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to describe the prevalence and characteristics of toileting-related falls in hospitalised older people.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of falls related to night-time toileting in patients 60 years or over in a tertiary hospital during a one-year period.

RESULTS

Overall 34% of falls were related to toileting with at least 44% of these falls occurring during the night. Toilet-related falls peaked between 11 pm and 1 am, a period that coincides with maximum supine-induced diuresis. Almost half of night falls occurred at the bedside. In 80% of night toileting-related falls, patients were mobilising without the recommended level of assistance. Half of all patients had no strategies for toileting documented in their care plan.

CONCLUSION

Findings support screening for nocturia in older inpatients and implementation of strategies to reduce both the need for toileting at night and risk factors for falling.

Sleep quality matters more to community-dwelling individuals than nocturia frequency

Objective:

The objective of this study is to identify variables that describe nocturia-related bother in a sample of community-dwelling individuals.

Materials and methods:

Community-dwelling individuals age 40 years and older who woke to pass urine at night completed an online questionnaire. Participants were asked (i) their top three concerns in relation to nocturia, (ii) to agree or disagree with a list of statements related to bother, and (iii) to complete the Nocturia Impact Diary items. Fisher exact test and the Mann–Whitney U test were used to assess whether differences in nocturia-related bother existed when comparing participants stratified by nocturia severity.

Results:

Moderate to extreme nocturia-related bother was described by 56% of the 202 respondents and by 68% of individuals with nocturia two or more times per night. Effects of nocturia, specifically sleep disruption and impact on daytime function, were the most cited concerns. Low nocturia-related health literacy was evident. The sample was younger (83% age <70 years), predominantly female (74%) and nocturia treatment naïve (95%).

Conclusion:

The study highlights the potential to evaluate patient care based on change in sleep and daytime function rather than solely on nocturia frequency. A suite of patient-reported outcome measures adjunctive to clinical data may have utility in quantifying meaningful change to patients after treatment for nocturia.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable for this multicentre audit.

Metabolic syndrome and smoking are associated with persistence of nocturia after transurethral resection of the prostate

AIMS

The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between smoking, metabolic syndrome (MetS) and persistence of nocturia in patients with moderate/severe nocturia (nocturia episodes ≥2), lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs), and benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).

METHODS

From 2015 onward, a consecutive series of patients with moderate/severe nocturia (nocturia episodes ≥2), LUTS, and BPE undergoing TURP were prospectively enrolled. Medical history, physical examination, and smoking status were recorded. MetS was defined according to Adult Treatment Panel III. Moderate/severe persistent nocturia after TURP was defined as nocturia episodes ≥2. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the risk of persisting nocturia.

RESULTS

One hundred two patients were enrolled with a median age of 70 years (interquartile range: 65/73). After TURP, moderate/severe nocturia was reported in 43 of 102 (42%) of the patients. Overall 40 of 102 (39%) patients presented a MetS, and out of them, 23 of 40 (58%) presented a moderate/severe persistent nocturia after TURP ( P = .001). Overall 62 of 102 (61%) patients were smokers, and out of them, 32 of 62 (52%) presented moderate/severe persistent nocturia after TURP ( P = .034). On multivariate analysis, prostate volume, MetS, and smoking were independent risk factors for moderate/severe persistent nocturia after TURP.

CONCLUSION

In our single-center study, MetS and smoking increased the risk of moderate/severe persistent nocturia after TURP in patients with LUTS-BPE. Although these results should be confirmed, and the pathophysiology is yet to be completely understood, counseling smokers and MetS patients about the risk of postoperative persistent nocturia is warranted.

Does successful treatment of overactive bladder improve co-morbidities in patients with nocturia?

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether treatment of overactive bladder (OAB), one comorbidity of nocturia, could reduce waking to void and improve other co-existing symptoms.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted at Royal Melbourne Hospital. Participants received 12 weeks of standard treatment, including lifestyle interventions and pharmacotherapy. Outcome measures were nocturia episodes, severity of urinary urgency/incontinence, sleep quality, daytime somnolence, anxiety and depression scores, quality of life and change in blood pressure.

RESULTS

Twenty participants completed the study. Nocturia frequency improved by one void per night. Overactive Bladder Symptom Score, sleep quality, first uninterrupted sleep time and systolic blood pressures improved. There were no significant changes in daytime somnolence, mood or quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

In this pilot study, nocturia and other co-morbid dysfunctions appeared to improve when the severity of OAB was reduced. Treatment of OAB co-morbid with nocturia reduces urinary symptoms and may improve sleep parameters and positively impact return to health.

Metabolic syndrome and smoking are associated with an increased risk of nocturia in male patients with benign prostatic enlargement

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the relationship between cigarette smoking, metabolic syndrome (MetS) and nocturia in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and benign prostatic enlargement (BPE).

METHODS

From 2009 onward, a consecutive series of patients with LUTS/BPE were enrolled. Symptoms were assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Age, body mass index (BMI), smoker status, prostate volume (PV), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, fasting glucose levels, triglyceride levels, and high-density lipoprotein levels were recorded. MetS was defined according to Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. Moderate/severe nocturia was defined as nocturnal micturition episodes ≥2.

RESULTS

Overall 492 patients were enrolled with median age and BMI of 68 years (IQR 61/74) and 26.5 kg/m² (IQR: 24/29), respectively. Moderate/severe nocturia was reported in 212 (43.1%) patients. MetS was diagnosed in 147 (29.9%) patients and out of them 89 (60.5%) complained moderate/severe nocturia (p = 0.001). Overall 187 (38%) patients were current smokers and out of them 99 (52%) presented moderate/severe nocturia(p = 0.034). Patients with moderate/severe nocturia were older (p = 0.001) and with larger prostate volume (p = 0.003). On multivariate analysis, age (OR: 1.067 per year, 95% CI: 1.036-1.098; p = 0.001), PV (OR: 1.011 per ml, 95% CI: 1.003-1.019; p = 0.006), MetS (OR: 2.509, 95% CI: 1.571-4.007; p = 0.001) and smoking (OR: 1.690, 95% CI: 1.061-2.693; p = 0.027) were associated with nocturia severity.

CONCLUSIONS

MetS and smoking doubled the risk of moderate/severe nocturia in patients with LUTS and BPE. Assessing smoking and metabolic status in LUTS/ BPE patients is suggested.

A practical approach to the management of nocturia

AIM

To raise awareness on nocturia disease burden and to provide simplified aetiologic evaluation and related treatment pathways.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary group of nocturia experts developed practical advice and recommendations based on the best available evidence supplemented by their own experiences.

RESULTS

Nocturia is defined as the need to void ≥1 time during the sleeping period of the night. Clinically relevant nocturia (≥2 voids per night) affects 2%-18% of those aged 20-40 years, rising to 28%-62% for those aged 70-80 years. Consequences include the following: lowered quality of life; falls and fractures; reduced work productivity; depression; and increased mortality. Nocturia-related hip fractures alone cost approximately €1 billion in the EU and $1.5 billion in the USA in 2014. The pathophysiology of nocturia is multifactorial and typically related to polyuria (either global or nocturnal), reduced bladder capacity or increased fluid intake. Accurate assessment is predicated on frequency-volume charts combined with a detailed patient history, medicine review and physical examination. Optimal treatment should focus on the underlying cause(s), with lifestyle modifications (eg, reducing evening fluid intake) being the first intervention. For patients with sustained bother, medical therapies should be introduced; low-dose, gender-specific desmopressin has proven effective in nocturia due to idiopathic nocturnal polyuria. The timing of diuretics is an important consideration, and they should be taken mid-late afternoon, dependent on the specific serum half-life. Patients not responding to these basic treatments should be referred for specialist management.

CONCLUSIONS

The cause(s) of nocturia should be first evaluated in all patients. Afterwards, the underlying pathophysiology should be treated specifically, alone with lifestyle interventions or in combination with drugs or (prostate) surgery.

Nocturia is Associated with Poor Sleep Quality Among Older Women in the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures

OBJECTIVES

(1) To examine relationships between frequency of nocturia and self-reported sleep quality and objective sleep measures in older women, and (2) to estimate the amount of variation in sleep measures that is specifically attributable to frequency of nocturia.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Secondary, cross sectional analysis of the multicenter prospective cohort Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF).

PARTICIPANTS

Community-dwelling women aged ≥80 years.

MEASUREMENTS

Frequency of nocturia in the previous 12 months, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index sleep quality subscale, and actigraphy-measured wake after sleep onset (WASO) and total sleep time (TST).

RESULTS

Of 1,520 participants, 25% (n = 392) reported their nocturia frequency was 3-4 times/night and an additional 60% (n = 917) reported their nocturia frequency was 1-2 times/night. More frequent nocturia was associated with poor sleep quality (3-4/night: 26.8% reported fairly bad or very bad sleep quality; 1-2/night: 14.7%; 0/night: 7.7%; P < .001) and longer WASO (3-4/night: 89.8 minutes; 1-2/night: 70.6; 0/night: 55.5; P < .001). In nested regression models, a nocturia frequency of 3-4/night quadrupled the odds of poor sleep quality (odds ratio: 4.26 [95% CI 1.65, 11.01]; P = .003) and was associated with a 37-minute worsening in WASO (95% CI 26.0, 49.0; P < .001). Frequency of nocturia explained an additional 6% variation in WASO, above and beyond demographic, medical/psychiatric conditions, and medication factors (∆R² = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

Nocturia is common among octogenarian and nonagenarian women and is independently associated with poor sleep quality and longer wake time at night. Interventions that improve nocturia may be useful in improving sleep quality and wake time at night.

TANGO - a screening tool to identify comorbidities on the causal pathway of nocturia

OBJECTIVES

To develop a robust screening metric for use in identifying non-lower urinary tract comorbidities pertinent to the multidisciplinary assessment of patients with nocturia.

METHODS

Variables having a significant risk association with nocturia of greater than once per night were identified. Discriminating items from validated and reliable tools measuring these comorbidities were identified. A self-completed 57-item questionnaire was developed and a medical checklist and pertinent clinical measures added. Pre-determined criteria were applied to retain or remove items in the development of the Short-Form (SF) screening tool. The tool was administered to 252 individuals with nocturia who were attending either a tertiary level Sleep, Continence, Falls or Rehabilitation service for routine care. Data collected were subjected to descriptive analysis; criteria were applied to reduce the number of items. Using pre-determined domains, a nocturia screening metric, entitled TANGO, was generated. The acronym TANGO stands for Targeting the individual's Aetiology of Nocturia to Guide Outcomes.

RESULTS

The demographic characteristics of the sample are described, along with item endorsement levels. The statistical and structural framework to justify deleting or retaining of items from the TANGO Long-Form to the SF is presented. The resultant TANGO-SF patient-completed nocturia screening tool is reported.

CONCLUSIONS

A novel all-cause diagnostic metric for identifying co-existing morbidities of clinical relevance to nocturia in patients who present across disciplines and medical specialties has been developed. TANGO has the potential to improve practice and smooth inequalities associated with a siloed approach to assessment and subsequent care of patients with nocturia.