Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 6, 2026

E-Patient Counseling Trial E-PACO: Computer Based Education versus Nurse Counseling for Patients to Prepare for Colonoscopy
Published on: August 1, 2019
Questions to ask a patient with nocturia
Wendy F Bower1, Karel Everaert2, Tee J Ong3
1FACP, PhD, BAppSc (Physio), Principal Investigator TANGO Research Group and Senior Clinician Physiotherapist, Department of Medicine and Community Care, the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne; Associate Professor, University of Melbourne, Melbourne; Visiting Professor, Ghent University, Belgium. wendy.bower@mh.org.au.
Nocturia, or waking at night to urinate, is often wrongly dismissed as normal aging. This condition is linked to significant illness and requires proper diagnosis and personalized treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Urology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Nocturia is frequently overlooked by patients who perceive it as a normal consequence of aging.
- Despite being commonly dismissed, nocturia is associated with considerable morbidity and may indicate underlying health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a diagnostic and treatment framework for nocturia.
- To guide clinicians in evaluating and managing nocturia through a series of targeted questions.
Main Methods:
- The paper outlines an assessment process to identify contributing factors to nocturia.
- It emphasizes understanding the interplay of nocturnal polyuria, reduced bladder capacity, and sleep disturbances.
Main Results:
- Nocturia arises from complex interactions involving the urinary system, kidneys, brain, cardiovascular health, and hormonal changes.
- Common medications in older adults can influence the onset or resolution of nocturia.
- Patient-reported bother from nocturia is linked to disrupted sleep, physical exertion, and fatigue.
Conclusions:
- A thorough assessment identifying individual causes of nocturia is crucial for effective, targeted treatment.
- Addressing nocturia can lead to improved health outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals.
Related Concept Videos
Patient-centered Care
Drug Dosing: Geriatric Patients
Drug Dosing: Obese Patients
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Distribution

