In adults, the causes of bed-wetting, or nocturnal enuresis, can stem from genetics, disease or illness. There are two types of adult nocturnal enuresis, primary and secondary. Primary nocturnal enuresis is a continuation of the disorder from childhood and is extremely rare. According to Pediatric Education, 1 percent of adults have primary nocturnal enuresis. Adults with secondary nocturnal enuresis experience symptoms as adults, some for the first time and others years after overcoming the condition as children. According to the National Association for Continence, 2 percent of adults have secondary nocturnal enuresis. Adults experiencing bed-wetting should seek evaluation by a physician.
Genetics
There are three bed-wetting genes, ENURI 1, ENURI 2 and ENURI 3. A patient's chances of having primary nocturnal enuresis increase substantially if he has one of the genes. Patients with two enuretic parents have a 77 percent chance of developing the disorder as a child. If only one parent has a history of bed-wetting, there is a 44 percent chance of the child having the condition. Although most enuretic children do outgrow nocturnal enuresis, these statistics hold true through adulthood.
Medication
Certain prescription drugs have side effects that can cause bed-wetting in adults. Incontinence or loss of bladder control is a side effect of risperidone, thioridazine and clozapine---all drugs psychiatrists commonly prescribe for schizophrenia. Although rare, incontinence is also a side effect of zolpidem tartrate and other hypnotic drugs, which physicians may prescribe for insomnia. Always discuss any possible medication side effects with your physician. He may be able to prescribe a different medication that has fewer side effects.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious disorder that causes an individual to stop breathing intermittently at night. It occurs when the throat muscles relax during sleep, obstructing the airway. The condition can cause bed-wetting or frequent nighttime urination in adults. Obese patients and the elderly are more likely to be affected by obstructive sleep apnea. Other symptoms include loud snoring and daytime drowsiness. Obstructive sleep apnea can be treated with surgery or the use of a mechanical device that forces the airway to remain open.
Diabetes Insipidus
Diabetes insipidus is a form of diabetes in which patients generate urine in large volumes. The condition occurs most often when the body fails to produce enough arginine vasopressin, a hormone that regulates kidney function. In some cases, the body produces the hormone, but the kidneys are unable to process it. Physicians treat diabetes insipidus with diet changes, prescription drugs or hormone therapy.
Prostate Enlargement
In older men, an enlarged prostate can cause nocturnal enuresis. The male prostate gland is located just below the bladder. It is part of the male reproductive system and is normally about the size of a walnut. As men age, the gland enlarges. Left untreated, the enlargement can cause numerous urinary problems including increased urination, difficulty urinating, weak urine flow and nocturnal enuresis. The condition is most commonly treated with medication, although in some cases surgery may be necessary.
References
- Pediatric Education: Archive
- National Association for Continence: Adult Nocturnal Enuresis
- "Pediatrics: Just the Facts"; Thomas Green, M.D.; July 2004
- "Physicians Desk Reference 2010"; PDR Staff; November 2009
