Nocturnal Enuresis in Children: Causes and Remedies

Q: Nocturnal Enuresis in Children: Causes and Remedies

Hello： Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) categorizes enuresis into two types： deficiency and excess. <br>Deficiency is primarily due to weak kidney qi and spleen-lung qi deficiency, leading to bladder incontinence. <br>Symptoms of these types often include fatigue, cold intolera

Nocturia

Hello, doctor.
My daughter is six years old and is about to start first grade, but she still experiences nighttime urination (almost every day).
Does this indicate that her constitution needs adjustment at this age? Is eating dried longan or drinking longan tea effective? She also has severe dark circles under her eyes, which have been present since childhood.
Is this related to her constitution or can it be adjusted?
In the past two to three months, she has been suffering from folliculitis on her buttocks that hasn't improved.
We consulted a dermatologist and received oral and topical medications, but it keeps recurring.
Just when it seems to be getting better, new spots appear, which is really frustrating.
Applying medication daily is quite bothersome.
Would traditional Chinese medicine be effective for this?
She is very heat-sensitive and sweats a lot, often drenched in sweat, including her scalp, which makes her hair wet.
She also experiences constipation frequently and enjoys eating ice and drinking cold water.
Can we determine her constitution based on these symptoms? There are many questions, and I would greatly appreciate your insights.
Thank you very much!

orange, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/18

Dr. Ding Hanxiang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) categorizes enuresis into two types: deficiency and excess.
Deficiency is primarily due to weak kidney qi and spleen-lung qi deficiency, leading to bladder incontinence.
Symptoms of these types often include fatigue, cold intolerance, pale complexion, and susceptibility to diarrhea, which do not align with your daughter's symptoms.
She likely falls into the excess category, commonly associated with damp-heat in the liver meridian according to TCM.
This is related to her constitution, as it pertains to a dry-heat constitution.
Longan dried fruit is not suitable for her consumption, and she should avoid fried, baked, and spicy foods, such as French fries and chicken nuggets.
Regarding the use of Chinese herbal medicine, it is advisable to consult a TCM practitioner for a more appropriate treatment.
Ding Hanxiang

Reply Date: 2005/07/18

More Info

Nocturnal enuresis, commonly known as bedwetting, is a condition that affects many children, particularly those around the age of six, as in your daughter's case. It is important to understand that this condition is quite common and can be attributed to a variety of factors, including developmental, physiological, and psychological aspects.
Firstly, it is essential to recognize that nocturnal enuresis is not necessarily indicative of a serious underlying health issue. Many children simply take longer to develop the ability to control their bladder during sleep. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as a delay in the maturation of the central nervous system, which is responsible for bladder control, or a genetic predisposition, as bedwetting often runs in families.
In terms of remedies, there are several approaches that can be taken. Behavioral interventions, such as establishing a regular bathroom routine before bedtime, limiting fluid intake in the evening, and using positive reinforcement for dry nights, can be effective. Additionally, some parents find success with moisture alarms that alert the child when they begin to wet the bed, helping them to wake up and use the bathroom.

Regarding your inquiry about dietary adjustments, while certain foods like longan (dragon eye) may be considered beneficial in traditional medicine, there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness in treating nocturnal enuresis. It is crucial to focus on a balanced diet and ensure that your child is hydrated throughout the day, but not excessively so in the hours leading up to bedtime.

The presence of dark circles under your daughter's eyes could be related to several factors, including genetics, lack of sleep, or even allergies. If she has a history of sleep disturbances or is not getting adequate rest, this could contribute to the appearance of dark circles. It may be beneficial to evaluate her sleep habits and ensure she is getting enough quality sleep.

As for the recurrent folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) on her buttocks, this condition can be frustrating. It may be exacerbated by factors such as sweating, tight clothing, or skin irritation. Maintaining good hygiene, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and using non-comedogenic products can help. If the condition persists despite treatment, it may be worth consulting a dermatologist for further evaluation and management.
Your mention of her being prone to sweating and experiencing constipation suggests that she may have a unique constitution that could benefit from a holistic approach. Traditional Chinese medicine often categorizes individuals based on their symptoms and constitution, and consulting with a qualified practitioner may provide insights into dietary and lifestyle adjustments that could help balance her system.

In summary, while nocturnal enuresis is common in children and often resolves with time, it is essential to approach the situation with patience and understanding. Implementing behavioral strategies, ensuring adequate sleep, and addressing any skin issues with appropriate medical care can significantly improve your daughter's overall well-being. If concerns persist, seeking guidance from a pediatrician or a specialist in pediatric urology may provide additional support and reassurance.

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