Frequent urination

Definitions

Description

The need to pass urine many times during the day, the night or both.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a healthcare professional right away for frequent urination with:

  • Blood in the urine, or red or dark brown urine.
  • Pain while urinating.
  • Pain in the side, lower stomach or groin.
  • Trouble passing urine or emptying the bladder.
  • A strong urge to pass urine.
  • Loss of bladder control.
  • Fever.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a healthcare professional if:

  • There's no clear reason for frequent urination, such as drinking more water, alcohol or caffeine.
  • Frequent urination disrupts sleep or daily life.
  • Frequent urination happens along with other urinary symptoms.