Why are more young people waking up at night to urinate?

Blue light from phones not only disrupts sleep but also reduces antidiuretic hormone, causing kidneys to produce more urine and forcing many to wake up repeatedly during the night.

This warning comes from urologist Cao Minh Hong, director of Hao Hanh Phuc Tam Trong Urology Clinic in New Taipei City, Taiwan.

Dr. Cao Minh Hong states that nocturia – the need to wake up and urinate during the night – is typically common among older adults. However, the number of young people seeking treatment for this condition is increasing. Waking up at night to urinate significantly impacts quality of life. The causes include: aging, pituitary dysfunction, reduced bladder capacity, man tinh diseases, psychological issues, or sleep disorders.

Illustrative photo: Urodoc

Recent studies indicate that prolonged use of electronic devices is a leading factor in nocturia. Blue light emitted from these screens affects light receptors in the eyes, sending signals to the brain and disrupting the body's biological clock. When exposed to blue light at night, the brain is "tricked" into thinking it is still daytime, suppressing melatonin secretion – the sleep-regulating hormone – making it difficult to fall asleep and causing restlessness.

Furthermore, blue light's disruption of the circadian rhythm also reduces the secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). This condition causes the kidneys to produce more urine during sleep, forcing individuals to wake up repeatedly to urinate.

Given the increasing number of young people experiencing nocturia, Dr. Cao advises reducing blue light exposure before bed. It is best to stop using electronic devices at least one hour before sleep to allow the brain to relax. Simultaneously, maintaining a regular sleep schedule is crucial to protect and improve sleep quality.