Frequent urination occurs when a person has the urge to urinate often along with bladder discomfort, according to Medline Plus. Medical conditions such as urinary tract infection, diabetes and pregnancy can cause an increase in urination. An increase in urination is also common as people age. Determining the cause of this issue and getting treatment can minimize frequent urination.

Age-Related Changes

As the body ages, the bladder, pelvic floor and urethra start to weaken. This affects the frequency of urination and the ability to eliminate urine properly. If your doctor thinks your frequent urination is caused by aging, she may recommend "bladder training." During this training, you'll start to delay urination for 10 minutes at a time. The goal is to lengthen time between urination to once every couple of hours. Your doctor may also recommend pelvic-floor exercises called "Kegels" to make pelvic muscles stronger.

Check for Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are a common cause of frequent urination, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of infection may include pain while urinating, foul-smelling urine and pelvic pain. If you suspect a urinary tract infection, visit your doctor. She will take a urine sample and test for infection. If the test is positive for a urinary tract infection, she will prescribe antibiotics. After treatment, frequent urination should stop.

Test for Diabetes

Diabetes can cause frequent urination, according to the Mayo Clinic. Diabetes causes extra blood sugar to be deposited into the urine. This process draws out water from body tissues, which causes frequent urination. Managing diabetes with medications, exercise and diet can reduce symptoms such as frequent urination.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid

Fluid and diet changes can reduce the number of trips to the bathroom. Cut back on caffeine and alcohol, which increase urination. Also, avoid foods that are highly acidic. Weight loss and increasing physical activity may also help, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Frequent Urination Can Signal Underlying Health Problem

Medline Plus: Frequent or Urgent Urination

Mayo Clinic: Urinary Incontinence