My frequent urination

I usually urinate every 10 to 15 minutes after drinking water. Kindly let me know if this is normal.

Ngozi (by SMS)

Urinating every ten to fifteen minutes following the intake of water needs an explanation. It is essential to understand the significance of the message conveyed by the body and the meaning associated with the process.

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The key point to differentiate lies in distinguishing the true polyuria and the need to rush to the toilet due to the false sense of urge for urination before filling up the bladder. Overactive bladder is a disorder that gives false alarm to urinate with only a small amount of urine stored in the bladder, making an inappropriate connection between the bladder and the brain.

The condition is common among millions of patients but can be managed with specific medication. The infection of the urinary tract leads to inflammation of the bladder, giving false sensations of the urge to urinate and the feeling of full bladder while it is almost empty.

Prostate enlargement leads to incomplete bladder emptying in men causing the same effect. Interstitial cystitis is associated with chronic irritation of the bladder wall similar to your case. The underlying cause of undiagnosed diabetes is the kidneys’ inability to retain fluids, leading to polyuria rather than false sensation of the urge to urinate.

Some medications, caffeine from coffee, and anxiety states keep the bladder in a permanent state of mild contraction, giving an illusion of a full bladder irrespective of its actual size. In view of all the above issues, you will need a proper medical examination to confirm the cause of your condition.