Waking up at night to pee? You’re not alone—but don’t ignore it.
If you’re frequently waking up to use the bathroom, it could be a sign of nocturia, a condition where you urinate more than once per night. It’s common—affecting millions—and often gets worse with age.
While it might seem like a minor annoyance, it could point to underlying issues like an overactive bladder, prostate problems, or even chronic conditions. It also disrupts REM sleep, which is essential for mood, memory, and overall health.
Often, the body releases a hormone (ADH) during REM sleep to reduce urine production at night. If you’re not hitting REM, you’re likely making more urine—and waking up to pee.
What can help?
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Stick to a regular sleep schedule
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Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and large drinks before bed
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Wind down with relaxing activities
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Keep your bedroom cool and dark
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Limit screen time before sleep
If nighttime trips are frequent, talk to a healthcare provider. Improving sleep could boost both your energy and your long-term health.