Is That Frequent Need to Wee Just Annoying, or Could It Be More Serious?

Are you always running to the loo?

Frequent trips to the toilet—especially when they interrupt your day or sleep—can be more than just a nuisance. In the UK, urinary symptoms are among the top reasons for seeing a GP. But how do you know when it's time to investigate with a urine test?

Why am I always needing to urinate?

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Especially common in women, these can also affect men and children
• Overactive bladder: Urgency unrelated to infection
• Diabetes: High blood sugar can cause increased urination
• Kidney issues: Early signs sometimes appear as changes in urination patterns

So, what does a urine test actually do?

A home urine chemistry & microscopy test helps detect signs of:

• Protein – can point to kidney stress
• Blood – even in tiny amounts, may signal infection or other problems
• Glucose – could be a diabetes indicator
• Bacteria and cells under the microscope – useful for diagnosing infections

What should I do now?

Even small symptoms can matter. Here are useful steps:

• Keep hydrated – but avoid caffeine and alcohol if symptomatic
• Monitor when and how often you go
• See a GP if you have pain, fever, or visible blood
• Consider testing urine at home for extra clarity—find out more about the Mayfield at-home urine test kit

Book a test or consult

Not sure? Book a blood or urine test at Mayfield Clinic or explore our at-home kit you can use whenever symptoms arise.

Useful links

• NHS: Urinary tract infections