Bedwetting at 23: Is It a Urological or Psychological Issue?

Q: Bedwetting at 23: Is It a Urological or Psychological Issue?

Hello, Happy New Year： If you do not experience incontinence or bedwetting during the day and only have incidents at night while sleeping, it is likely not a significant urinary tract issue. <br>Generally speaking, the chances of bedwetting decrease significantly after the age of

Bedwetting

I am 23 years old, but sometimes I don't know why I still wet the bed.
Usually, I dream that I am looking for a bathroom and that I have urinated several times, but when I wake up, I have actually wet myself.
What could be the issue? Is it a urinary problem, or should I see a psychologist?

Xiao B, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/01/22

Dr. Lin Yanhong reply Psychiatry

Hello, Happy New Year: If you do not experience incontinence or bedwetting during the day and only have incidents at night while sleeping, it is likely not a significant urinary tract issue.
Generally speaking, the chances of bedwetting decrease significantly after the age of five.
However, the maturity of the nerves that control bladder sensation varies among individuals, and there are still a small number of people who experience bedwetting into adulthood, similar to your situation.
It is advisable to limit fluid intake before bedtime.
If you dream about needing to use the bathroom, it should signal that it is time to wake up and go.
When the bladder fills to a certain point, it will trigger the sensation of needing to urinate.
However, if this sensation is not acknowledged during sleep, it may manifest in dreams about using the bathroom.
If possible, try to establish a routine of waking up at a fixed time during the night to urinate.
Otherwise, remind yourself in your dreams that it is not just a dream.
Over time, your issue may gradually improve; this is based on my own experience during high school, which I hope can be of reference to you.
If there is no improvement, consider consulting a psychiatrist, as there are medications that may be helpful.

Reply Date: 2004/01/22

More Info

Bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis, in adults can be a complex issue that may stem from both physiological and psychological factors. At 23 years old, experiencing bedwetting can be distressing and may lead to feelings of embarrassment or shame. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for determining the appropriate course of action.

From a urological perspective, there are several potential causes for adult bedwetting. One common issue is a bladder that is unable to hold urine during the night, which can be due to a variety of factors including bladder dysfunction, urinary tract infections, or even anatomical abnormalities. Additionally, conditions such as diabetes or sleep apnea can contribute to increased urine production or disrupted sleep patterns, leading to bedwetting incidents. It would be advisable to consult a urologist who can conduct tests to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to this issue.

On the psychological side, bedwetting can also be linked to stress, anxiety, or unresolved emotional issues. The fact that you mentioned dreaming about searching for a bathroom and then waking up to find that you have urinated suggests that there may be a psychological component at play. Dreams about needing to use the restroom can indicate a subconscious awareness of your body's needs, but if you are unable to wake up in time, it may point to deeper issues related to sleep quality or anxiety.
In some cases, adult bedwetting can be associated with past trauma or significant life changes that have led to increased stress or anxiety. If you find that you are experiencing heightened levels of stress in your daily life, it may be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore any underlying emotional issues and develop coping strategies to manage anxiety or stress that may be contributing to your bedwetting.

It is also worth considering lifestyle factors that may be influencing your situation. For instance, excessive fluid intake before bedtime, consumption of caffeine or alcohol, and irregular sleep patterns can all exacerbate bedwetting. Keeping a diary of your fluid intake, sleep habits, and instances of bedwetting may help identify patterns or triggers that could be addressed.

In summary, bedwetting at the age of 23 can be attributed to both urological and psychological factors. It is essential to approach this issue holistically. Start by consulting a urologist to rule out any medical conditions, and consider seeking support from a mental health professional to address any psychological aspects. By understanding the interplay between your physical health and emotional well-being, you can work towards finding effective solutions to manage and ultimately overcome this challenge. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a positive step towards improving your quality of life.

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