Waking to urinate every night - a condition known as nocturia - can have a major impact on people's moods, work performance and relationships, new research suggests.

Nocturia causes people to wake during the night to urinate, sometimes several times a night. As a result, continuous sleep is impossible, which can have a major impact on a person's quality of life. Causes include an overactive bladder, a weakened bladder, nocturnal polyuria (an overproduction of urine at night) and other health conditions such as diabetes.

A new survey of over 530 affected adults in Ireland revealed that the condition can impact on many different parts of life. Some 64% said that their work performance is adversely affected, while 60% said their exercise regime is affected.

Almost half (45%) admitted that the condition has led to arguments with their partner, while 49% said it has impacted on their socialising with friends.

At least three in four (76%) admitted that nocturia had a negative effect on their concentration and overall mood.

"Adults who are affected by nocturia are unable to achieve continuous sleep and cannot feel rested the following day. Tiredness and irritability can have a huge effect on an adult's ability to concentrate and perform everyday tasks, and as this research shows, sleep deprivation can have a negative impact on all aspects of people's lives, including their relationships," noted Dr Declan Keane, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, at the National Maternity Hospital in Dublin.

He pointed out that if a person's quality of sleep is disturbed, this can lead to other health problems. For example, it can lead to people exercising less, which can have an impact on overall health.

However, nocturia ‘can be easily diagnosed and treated effectively', he emphasised.

The survey, which was carried out in May and June of this year, is part of a campaign aimed at raising awareness of this condition. For more information, click here