Urgency (the need to pass water)

Causes and risk factors

If this is the case, one of the possible causes is a urine infection or sexually transmitted infection, such as NSU (non-specific urethritis). This is more likely if you're also suffering any discomfort when you try to pass water. If you're middle aged or older then enlargement of the prostate gland may be responsible. A stone that has settled in the bladder may irritate the bladder wall, triggering the sensation to pass water even when the bladder isn't ready.

Anxiety may cause the condition. Many people repeatedly feel the need to pass water when they're stressed and have something on their mind. It may be a side-effect of medication or supplements, so look at the information leaflets that come with these.

If you're passing a lot of water then this may be because you're drinking plenty of liquid, which is a good thing. Caffeine will make people pass water more frequently so keep an eye on how much tea, coffee and caffeinated soft drinks you drink. You should also think about being tested for diabetes, particularly if you're feeling very thirsty, tired or have diabetes in the family.

Treatment and recovery

These are some of the likely possibilities for your problem. It's essential you see your GP, who can determine exactly what the cause of your problem is and the best way to treat it.