Moxibustion for Nocturia

Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Acupoint Moxibustion for Nocturia: A Pilot Study

Nocturia, the interruption of sleep due to nighttime voiding, severely compromises quality of life, emotional health, and overall well-being when occurring twice or more per night. Given that some patients experience inadequate responses to conventional Western therapies or harbor concerns about the long-term side effects of pharmaceuticals, many are turning to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for alternative solutions. This study utilized a randomized clinical trial design to investigate the efficacy and safety of acupoint moxibustion for nocturia.

Nocturia, the interruption of sleep due to nighttime voiding, severely compromises quality of life, emotional health, and overall well-being when occurring twice or more per night. Given that some patients experience inadequate responses to conventional Western therapies or harbor concerns about the long-term side effects of pharmaceuticals, many are turning to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for alternative solutions. This study utilized a randomized clinical trial design to investigate the efficacy and safety of acupoint moxibustion for nocturia. Using voiding diaries, the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), and Quality of Life (QoL) assessments, this study aimed to provide a cost-effective and clinically feasible complementary and alternative therapy. Furthermore, the TCM constitutional characteristics of nocturia patients were analyzed through the Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire (CCMQ) combined with evaluations of abdominal muscle tension.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged 40 years or older.
• Experiencing two or more nocturia episodes per night.

Exclusion Criteria

• Active urinary tract infection (UTI).
• Poorly controlled diabetes mellitus (defined as HbA1c > 6.5%).
• Presence of a neurogenic bladder caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, stroke, spinal cord injury, or nerve damage resulting from major pelvic surgery.
• Severe congestive heart failure (New York Heart Association [NYHA] functional class > II).
• Use of other Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapies for nocturia symptoms within the past month (30 days).
• Pregnant women.