However, when increased urinary frequency is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or burning during urination, or difficulty holding in the urge to urinate, this may indicate an underlying health problem.
In these cases, it is important to see a urologist so they can make an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
To clear up doubts and determine whether urinary frequency is normal or a sign of a possible condition, a doctor may request a routine urine test or a 24-hour urine test to assess kidney function. They will also evaluate whether there are other associated symptoms in order to reach a proper diagnosis.
Below are the most common causes that can increase the urge to urinate:
1. Drinking a lot of water, coffee, or alcoholic beverages
When a person drinks a large amount of water, it is normal for that excess fluid to be eliminated through urine. In this case, the urine is usually light in color and almost odorless. Under these conditions, it is normal for the body to expel the excess.
This often happens at certain times of the day after drinking a lot of fluids, eating foods with high water content, or consuming large amounts of salt or sodium-rich foods such as processed meats or French fries.
Drinking a lot of coffee or other beverages that contain caffeine, such as black tea, chocolate, and mate, also increases urinary frequency because, in addition to the fluid itself, caffeine is a natural diuretic.
Alcoholic beverages are another diuretic source. However, they are not a good option for quenching thirst, since they do not hydrate the body and, on the contrary, can lead to dehydration.
What to do: One way to reduce urinary frequency is to engage in physical activity, as exercise helps eliminate excess fluid retained in the body.
2. Taking diuretics
Taking certain medications to treat heart conditions, such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide, for example, can increase urine production by the kidneys.
What to do: It is important that any increase in urinary frequency caused by medication be monitored by a doctor. This allows proper control and the possibility of adjusting the dose or switching medications if necessary.