ABSTRACT – Bedwetting is also known as Nocturnal Enuresis which refers to uncontrolled passage of urine after one is...
Bedwetting
ABSTRACT –
Bedwetting is also known as Nocturnal Enuresis which refers to uncontrolled passage of urine after one is asleep. For infants and small children, urination is involuntary and it’s the part of a child’s development. It is an underlying medical or emotional problem. Till the age group of 4-7, bed wetting is not a concern but if it continues after a certain age, treating them with care and understanding becomes important.
CAUSES –
Due to small bladder, the child finds it difficult to recognize and hold urine in the bladder after sleeping.
Lack of anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) in the child due to hormonal imbalance leads to nighttime bedwetting.
Urinary infection makes it difficult to control urination
In Obstructive Sleep Apnea, child’s breathing is affected which directly affects the urination process.
Chronic constipation can also cause bed wetting as the muscles become weak and dysfunctional.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –
Bedwetting while sleeping
Burning sensation while passing urine
Strain or dribble while urination
Appearance of pinkish texture in urine or blood stains on underpants and pajamas
Difficulty in controlling bowel movements
Constipation
DIAGNOSIS –
Visiting doctor and discussing about fluid intake, family history, bowel and bladder habits
Urine test is done to check signs of an infection or diabetes
X-ray or other imaging tests of the kidney and bladder
Physical examination
TREATMENT –
Retraining and try controlling the urinary bladder which will help in holding fluid for more time
Avoid drinking fluid substance before going to sleep
Set alarm clock for alertness
Medications can help in reducing the amount of urine
PREVENTION–
Keep patience and be supportive to encourage child.
Avoid punishing the child for bedwetting, try to understand and resolve the condition.
Don’t tease child about the bedwetting as this can make the problem worse.
Make the child understand the responsibility
Use washable absorbent sheets, waterproof bed covers, and room deodorizers
EPIDEMIOLOGY –
Estimation has shown that the children affected from bedwetting are usually in the age group of 6-12 years.
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