Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: My son has frequent urination, about once every ten minutes, with very little urine each time. I want to ask if there is any illness? There are no abnormalities in his penis, and he shows no unusual symptoms.Doctor's answer:
It is neurogenic frequency.Neurogenic frequency is more common in preschool children, especially in children aged 4-5.
［Etiology］
The cerebral cortex of children is not yet fully developed, and their inhibitory function over the spinal primary micturition center is poor. This function is the most fragile and easily damaged, which is the intrinsic reason why children are prone to this condition. It is often triggered by acute stress or anxiety caused by sudden deaths in the family, changes in environment (such as starting at a new kindergarten, preschool, school, or hospital), sudden separation from parents, fear of injections and exams, etc. Excessive fluid intake and the use of diuretic drugs, such as caffeine, tea, etc., can also cause frequency.
［Symptoms］
The main symptom is an increase in the number of daily urinations without an increase in urine volume. Urinalysis is normal. The frequency of urination can increase from the normal 6-8 times per day to 20-30 times, or even more than 10 times per hour. Each time, the amount of urine is very small, sometimes only a few drops. There is no frequency during sleep, and it often worsens before going to bed or during meals and class.
［Treatment］
Parents should repeatedly tell the child that they are healthy and that the frequency symptoms will improve quickly, thereby eliminating negative psychological factors in the child and encouraging them to express their worries. Parents should be patient when educating preschool children and avoid hitting or scolding them. Kindergarten and daycare teachers should organize more relaxed and enjoyable games for new children and avoid overly stressful lessons. Understanding and not denying the child the opportunity to urinate are important. Additionally, more comfort should be provided to help the child focus on other activities.