Managing Bedwetting in Children: When to Seek Medical Help

Q: Managing Bedwetting in Children: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello： Bedwetting, generally speaking, is considered a concern if girls are over four years old and boys are over five years old and still experience this issue. <br>Doctors may consider treatment for children with bedwetting problems. <br>The incidence of enuresis tends to decre

Bedwetting in children at night?

My 10-year-old daughter has been experiencing frequent bedwetting at night, which has become more severe compared to previous years.
How should we handle this? Does she need to see a doctor? If so, what type of specialist should we consult?

jill, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/05/10

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello: Bedwetting, generally speaking, is considered a concern if girls are over four years old and boys are over five years old and still experience this issue.
Doctors may consider treatment for children with bedwetting problems.
The incidence of enuresis tends to decrease with age, with only about 10% of six-year-olds and 3% of fourteen-year-olds experiencing bedwetting.
Very few individuals continue to have this issue into adulthood.
Enuresis is classified into two types: Primary Enuresis and Secondary Enuresis.
Type Characteristics
Primary Enuresis: Almost daily bedwetting, with only occasional dry nights.
If this situation persists into the child's school years, appropriate treatment is necessary for improvement.
Secondary Enuresis: Occasional bedwetting after a significant period of dryness.
This is usually caused by life stressors, such as the birth of a sibling, entering a new school environment, or family issues.
If the problem continues for an extended period, it is essential to consult a doctor to rule out any physiological issues.
Sincerely, Dr.
Pei Ren-Sheng, Pediatrics.

Reply Date: 2006/05/10

More Info

Bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis, is a common issue among children, especially those under the age of 12. It can be a source of embarrassment and concern for both the child and their parents. In your case, your 10-year-old daughter is experiencing an increase in bedwetting frequency, which warrants a closer look at the situation.

First, it’s essential to understand that bedwetting can be caused by a variety of factors. These may include genetic predisposition, developmental delays in bladder control, deep sleep patterns, psychological stress, or underlying medical conditions such as urinary tract infections, diabetes, or bladder dysfunction. Given that your daughter’s bedwetting has become more frequent, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any potential medical issues.

Here are some steps you can take to manage the situation:
1. Keep a Diary: Documenting when bedwetting occurs can help identify patterns or triggers. Note the frequency, any associated events (like stress or changes in routine), and fluid intake before bedtime.

2. Limit Fluid Intake: Encourage your daughter to drink plenty of fluids during the day but limit her intake in the evening, especially close to bedtime. This can help reduce the likelihood of bedwetting.

3. Establish a Bedtime Routine: Encourage her to use the bathroom right before going to bed. A consistent bedtime routine can help signal to her body that it’s time to sleep.

4. Use Protective Bedding: Consider using waterproof mattress covers and absorbent bed pads to make cleanup easier and reduce embarrassment for your daughter.

5. Positive Reinforcement: Encourage and praise her for dry nights. Avoid punishment or negative reinforcement, as this can lead to increased anxiety and worsen the situation.

6. Consult a Pediatrician: Since the frequency of bedwetting has increased, it’s essential to consult a pediatrician. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly some tests, to rule out any underlying medical conditions. If necessary, they may refer you to a pediatric urologist or a specialist in pediatric nephrology.

7. Consider Behavioral Therapy: In some cases, behavioral therapies such as bladder training or the use of moisture alarms can be effective. These alarms wake the child when they begin to wet the bed, helping them learn to associate the sensation of a full bladder with waking up.

8. Medication: If bedwetting persists despite behavioral interventions, your doctor may discuss medication options. Desmopressin is a common medication that can help reduce urine production at night.

In summary, while bedwetting is a common issue, the increase in frequency in your daughter’s case suggests that it’s time to seek medical advice. A pediatrician can provide guidance tailored to her specific situation and help determine the best course of action. Remember, bedwetting is not uncommon, and with the right support and interventions, many children outgrow it successfully.

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