Some children continue to wet the bed even after reaching school age, which leads to immense embarrassment and frustration. Moreover, many parents prefer to remain silent on the subject instead of being a source of encouragement in such times, making matters worse. The truth is that bedwetting can be easily treated with the guidance of a healthcare expert. This post discusses the causes and remedies for the problem and provides helpful tips for overcoming it.
What is bedwetting?
The involuntary release of urine during sleep is known as bedwetting or nocturnal enuresis. It is common among kids, with approximately 20% of five-year-olds experiencing it. The problem can be distressing for both the child and the parents, impacting self-esteem and disrupting sleep.
What causes it?
Bedwetting can be a source of frustration for children and their parents. Its causes can vary depending on the type:
- Primary bedwetting
These are cases where children have never achieved consistent nighttime dryness. Primary bedwetting can develop due to a small bladder that cannot hold urine for the entire night. It could also be because the child does not fully wake up when their bladder is full, which leads to involuntary bedwetting. Moreover, poor daytime toilet habits, such as delaying urination or not fully emptying the bladder, can contribute to bedwetting at night. - Secondary bedwetting
It occurs when a child who has been dry for at least six months begins to wet the bed again. A urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common cause, which can aggravate the bladder and cause the body to produce more urine. Neurological problems like spinal cord injuries or conditions that affect the bladder’s nerve control can also result in secondary bedwetting. In addition, sleep apnea, characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, can unsettle the sleep cycle and lead to the problem.
Treatments and strategies for managing bedwetting
Although bedwetting is a common problem among children, most outgrow it eventually. Until then, several practical tips can help parents manage this issue:
- Ensure the child keeps their bedtime routine consistent.
- Set limits and expectations regarding how much liquid the child should drink before bedtime.
- Provide incentives when the child goes through several dry nights in a row. It will encourage them to continue their progress.
- Teach them about bedwetting and ensure they understand why it happens and what the potential solutions are.
- Ensure the little one feels comfortable discussing their bedwetting with the parents.
These strategies will help manage bedwetting and ensure long-term success. However, if the problem persists, parents should talk to their family doctor or pediatrician and ask them to recommend remedies. The expert may sometimes suggest behavioral therapy where an alarm is sounded when moisture is detected on the sheets. Relaxation techniques may also be beneficial since stress can sometimes contribute to bedwetting.
While bedwetting is a normal part of childhood development, parents should understand its underlying causes and potential remedies. The more one learns about the issue, the better it can be managed in the long run.
