Definition:
Bed-wetting is a developmental phase wherein an infant or child is unable to retain bladder control at nighttime. It is also sometimes called nocturnal enuresis or nighttime incontinence.
Diagnosis:
A physician will typically ask questions about the child's medical history as well as bed-wetting pattern. In some cases, a physical exam will be done to screen for infection or diabetes. If anatomical abnormalities are suspected, an x-ray or other imaging tests may be recommended.
Treatment:
In nearly all cases, children are able to outgrow bed-wetting on their own. If bed-wetting is not resolved by the time the child reaches the age of 7, more aggressive treatment may be recommended, such as: the use of moisture alarms to sense wetness and signal the child to urinate; certain medications to slow nighttime urine production; as well as alternative therapies like acupuncture, hypnosis, and massage.
Symptoms and Signs:
The primary symptom of bed-wetting is involuntary urination at night. It usually occurs in children who have not yet undergone full toilet training, usually at 2-4 years old. Children aged 5 and older usually learn to control their bladder. In some cases, bed-wetting may lead to rashes on the child's genital area or botton.
Causes:
Bed-wetting has no known cause; however, a combination of factors may play a role, including: a small bladder; inability to consciously recognize a full bladder; hormonal imbalance; urinary tract infection; exposure to stressful events; sleep apnea; diabetes; anatomical defects; or chronic constipation.
The information on this site is for research purposes only and can not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Ailments.com is not run by doctors and does not engage in the practice of medicine. Our site is not a medical authority, it is just a research tool for you to use in preparation for consulting with a doctor. We can not guarantee our information is accurate or up to date. Even if a statement made about a medical condition is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms, so you should always consult a doctor. Nothing on our site should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine.
