While it is probably nothing to worry about, it should not be ignored either. Bed wetting enuresis describes when a child has bed wetting accidents after the normal age of toilet training, which is usually by about age six. While it is a common childhood problem, no one really knows what causes bed wetting.
It does tend to run in families, so if one of the parents had a problem with nocturnal enuresis when growing up, it is quite common for their child to experience the same problem. Sometimes the problem occurs because the bladder simply is not large enough to hold an entire night’s worth of urine, and for other children, their nerve endings do not sense when the bladder is full.
When a child has been successfully toilet trained and then starts bed wetting, it definitely needs your immediate attention. This pattern can be the harbinger of a new stress such as a disruption in family life like moving, death or divorce. It is common for children who have been sexually abused to start wetting the bed. Illness or infection can also cause this problem, so it is vitally important to have a doctor evaluate the situation when a child regresses into bed wetting.
For children who have never been completely toilet trained, there are several ways that you can handle the problem. Even though most children will eventually outgrow bed wetting, it may cause them embarrassment, and they may want to help the process along. Using a bed wetting alarm is one way for a child to learn to awaken when they need to go to the bathroom. The alarm is worn on the child’s underwear or pajamas, and at the first hint of moisture an alarm sounds to awaken the child. The idea is for the alarm to help condition the child to awaken during the night when they need to go to the bathroom.
Another treatment method is medication, though it is not appropriate for all cases. Your doctor will be the best judge of whether medication is the right course of action for your child. Medication may come in very handy for a special sleepover or a week at camp, so it may be a short term option as well.
As you and your child work through this challenge, be supportive, and reassure them that the problem will get better in time. Limit fluids just before bedtime, and always have your child go to the bathroom before sending them off to bed. While you can use protective mattress covers to protect the bed, you do not want to put your child in diapers during the night, because it indicates that bed wetting is not a problem, and it can be demoralizing for your child. When your child has an accident have them help you change the sheets, and above all be patient and keep a positive attitude.
If you are concerned about your child’s bed wetting enuresis it is always a good idea to discuss the problem with your child’s doctor, and they can rule out any physical problems like illness or injury.
Further Bed Wetting Articles
- Bed Wetting Products: What You Should Know
- Waterproof Mattress Protection Help Manage Nocturnal Enuresis
- Staying Positive and Supportive when Dealing with Bedwetting Enuresis
- Patience is the Key with Bed Wetting Enuresis
- Bed Wetting Alarms Get Good Results
- A Positive Approach to Enuresis Treatment
- Adult Bedwetting: Causes and Management
Disclaimer - The research, clinical material and advice provided on this website is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for medical treatment, nor an alternative to medical advice. Any action taken in response to the information given on this website is at the reader's own discretion. Readers should always consult their own Doctor in all health matters. Please read our Terms and conditions. Copyright ©2003-2010 DryForLife®
