Nocturia is a frequently encountered problem in clinical practice and a reason for nephrology consultation. Many studies have clearly shown the negative effect of nocturia on several aspects of health-related quality of life and morbidity. Age-associated physiological, structural, hormonal, and histological changes play an important role in the increasing incidence of nocturia in elderly individuals. Besides urologic conditions, nocturia may also be the initial presenting symptom in chronic kidney disease, as well as other systemic diseases. Therefore, it is essential to understand the complex pathophysiology among these factors to establish a precise diagnosis and appropriate management strategies. This review will provide an overview of the effect of aging on the kidneys and urinary system, the pathophysiology, clinical assessment, and treatment strategies of nocturia, and its effect on health-related quality of life.
2010 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.