Nocturia and obstructive sleep apnoea

• Published in: Nature reviews. Urology
• Main Authors: Vrooman, Olaf P J, van Kerrebroeck, Philip E V, van Balken, Michael R, van Koeveringe, Gommert A, Rahnama'i, Mohammad S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 23.05.2024
• DOI: 10.1038/s41585-024-00887-7

Nocturia, the need to urinate at night, is a common symptom in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Continuous positive airway pressure treatment can reduce nocturia in some patients, but the underlying mechanisms are complex and not fully understood. OSA affects the autonomic nervous system, oxidative stress and endothelial damage. Furthermore, the commonly held theory attributing polyuria to a false signal of cardiac overload and response natriuresis has limitations. A comprehensive approach to the management of nocturia in OSA, considering factors such as comorbidities, medication use, alcohol consumption and lifestyle, is needed. Effective management of nocturia in OSA requires a multidisciplinary approach, and urologists should be aware of the potential effect of OSA on physiology and refer patients for further testing at a sleep centre. In addition to continuous positive airway pressure, other interventions such as oral appliances and surgical obstruction treatment could be beneficial for some patients. Overall, understanding the complex interplay between OSA and nocturia is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.