Enuresis, or bed wetting, is a common problem that most children suffer from at some point during their development. Most often, it goes away naturally as your child ages. However, if it does need to be treated, there are several options available, including moisture alarms, lifestyle modifications and medication.
Definition
Enuresis is involuntary urination in children over the age of 5 or 6. It usually occurs during the night and is usually a development stage for children as they develop bladder control. Most children will grow out of this problem naturally. However, if enuresis continues past the age of six, or your child experiences other symptoms, you should consult a doctor to develop a treatment plan.
Causes
The exact cause of enuresis is unknown. However, several factors may contribute to the condition. Your child's bladder is still small and may not be developed enough to hold all the urine that is produced during the night. The nerves that control the bladder also may not be fully developed, making your child less aware of the signs her bladder is full while she is sleeping. Other factors contributing to enuresis can include a hormone imbalance, stress and urinary tract infection.
Moisture Alarms
Moisture alarms are small, electric devices that connect to moisture sensitive pads on your child's bed or clothes. When the pad gets wet, an alarm goes off. Ideally, this will cause your child to wake up, stop urinating and go to the bathroom. However, it may take time for your child to get used to moisture alarms. According to the Mayo Clinic, it may take two weeks to see any type of results and up to 12 weeks to experience completely dry nights. Moisture alarms are generally effective, have few risks and can prove to be a better long-term solution than other treatments.
Lifestyle Treatment
Sometimes simply making small adjustments in your child's lifestyle can be the best treatment. Limit their fluid intake during the evening. The Mayo Clinic recommends your child drink no more than eight ounces of fluid at night. You should also have them avoid caffeinated drinks such as soda, which may increase the need to urinate.
Medication
If all other treatment options fail, your doctor can prescribe medication to help fix your child's enuresis. These medications can do a variety of things. Some decrease the production of urine by boosting levels of the hormone ADH. Other medications calm the bladder by reducing your child's bladder contractions and increasing bladder capacity. Medications are often most effective when combined. However, results can vary and symptoms usually return once medication stops.
