Bedwetting – Causes, symptoms, and management

Bedwetting – Causes, symptoms, and management

Boden Lam

Bedwetting is the inability to regulate one’s bladder at night and is referred to medically as nocturnal (nighttime) enuresis. Although it can be an annoying problem, bedwetting is frequently wholly typical. Although, for some kids, bedwetting is a standard developmental step. Adults, however, may experience it as a sign of an underlying sickness or illness. Bedwetting affects about 2% of the country’s population and can have several causes requiring immediate medical attention.

Causes of bedwetting
Physical or psychological problems may cause bedwetting in some people and is frequently caused in infants and adults due to:

  • A small bladder
  • Infection of the urinary tract (UTI)
  • Insecurity, stress, or fear
  • Post-stroke neurological disorders
  • Enlargement of the prostate gland
  • An abnormal pause in breathing during sleep is known as sleep apnea
  • Constipation

Some individuals can develop bedwetting due to hormonal imbalances. Everyone’s body secretes an antidiuretic hormone (ADH), instructing your body to reduce overnight urine output. The atypical bladder can retain urine overnight because of lower urine volume, and because the bladders lack urine, one may experience nocturnal enuresis.

Another condition that can lead to bedwetting is diabetes. If one has diabetes, the body may produce excess urine because of its inability to process glucose, also known as sugar. So when urine production rises, it can cause kids and people who typically sleep dry to wet the bed.

Diagnosis

  • Inspection of the body, Discussion of bedwetting symptoms, fluid consumption, family background, bowel and bladder habits, and related issues
  • X-rays or other imaging tests of the kidneys or bladder to examine the structure of the urinary system
  • Urine tests to look for indications of an infection or diabetes
  • Additional exams or evaluations of the urinary system, as necessary

Bedwetting treatment options
When a medical problem causes bedwetting, treatment goes beyond simple lifestyle changes. Bedwetting is a symptom of many conditions that prescription treatments can address. For instance: UTIs can be cured with prescriptions. Controlling persistent illnesses like diabetes and sleep apnea is also crucial. If appropriately treated, bedwetting caused by underlying medical conditions will probably stop.

Lifestyle and home remedies
The following home remedies for bedwetting might be beneficial:

  • In the nighttime, drink fewer fluids: There’s no need to restrict how much liquid your child consumes daily because getting enough of it is crucial. Encourage people to consume water in the morning and early afternoon, which may help them feel less thirsty in the evening. However, if your kid plays evening sports or practices, don’t restrict their fluid intake.
  • Avoid foods and drinks containing caffeine: Children should not consume caffeine-containing beverages at any moment. Instead, caffeine should be avoided in the evenings because it can activate the bladder.
  • Encourage two voids before bedtime: Double voiding is the practice of urinating once before starting the bedtime ritual and once more before going to sleep. Remind your child that using the restroom at any time, even at night, is acceptable. Use tiny nightlights to help your kid navigate between the bathroom and bedroom.
  • Encourage frequent bathroom use all day long: Encourage your child to urinate roughly every two hours during the day and evening, or at least frequently enough to prevent a sense of urgency.
  • Avoid skin sores: You should assist your child in rinsing their genital region and bottom each morning to avoid a rash from wet underwear. Applying a protective moisture barrier cream or ointment to the affected area may also be beneficial at night. Consult your child’s doctor for product suggestions.

Other alternatives
To treat bedwetting, some people may attempt complementary or alternative prescription techniques. The evidence of efficacy for treating bedwetting with methods like hypnosis, acupuncture, chiropractic therapy, and herbal treatment must be more substantial or precise, or such attempts will fail. Sometimes, the investigations needed to be more significant, rigorous, or both.
Before implementing complementary or alternative therapies, consult with a healthcare professional and enquire whether the unconventional method is safe for your child. Ensure it won’t interact with any prescription they might take before using.

Takeaway
After the age of six, most kids stop peeing on the bed. The ability to regulate one’s bladder is more developed and robust at this age. Bedwetting can be treated in children and adults with lifestyle modifications, medical care, and assistance from family and friends. Even though bedwetting can be treated with behavioral changes, you should still visit a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Additionally, speak with your doctor if you’ve never had bedwetting but just began as an elderly adult.

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