1. Start With Behavioral Modification Techniques
Behavioral training is usually very effective for treating bed-wetting. One of the most common ways to treat bed-wetting is with a positive reinforcement and reward system. For each night your child goes without wetting the bed, give him some form of reward. This could be as simple as a sticker on a calender (which lets him visualize his progress) or as big as a toy for going a longer period without wetting the bed. As long as each instance of dry bed is rewarded, your child will likely become increasingly aware of the necessity of rising to go to the bathroom. It is imperative, however, that you neither scold nor discipline a child who has wet the bed. Doing so will actually have a reverse effect and will likely increase the instances of bed-wetting.
2. Sound the Alarm
Bed-wetting alarms are also important components of a bed-wetting treatment plan. These alarms are moisture sensors that can be placed under the sheets or in the child's pajamas. These sensors are very sensitive and are linked to an alarm which rings whenever the child begins to wet the bed. The alarm activates in enough time to rouse your child and prevent her from completely emptying her bladder. This technique can also be combined with a reward system and other treatments to increase overall effectiveness.
3. Treat Underlying Conditions
Often there are other conditions that are leading your child to wet the bed in her sleep. Emotional stress, lack of sleep, bullying or teasing in school or any of a variety of social stimuli can contribute to bed-wetting. In addition, a medical condition such as a urinary tract infection, diabetes, abnormal anatomy (organ abnormalities, in particular) or a neurological disorder can contribute to bed-wetting. Speak to your pediatrician about testing for one of these underlying problems.
4. Medication Is an Option
For severe or particularly problematic cases of bed-wetting, there are medications that can be taken to help cure the problem. DDAVP is an artificial version of the hormone ADH (antidiuretic hormone). This hormone works by reducing the amount of urine in the system while simultaneously increasing its potency and concentration. Thus, it take longer for the bladder to fill. The drug is taken nasally and can cause nosebleeds, stuffiness and headaches, but the dosage can be adjusted until bed-wetting ceases. Other medications that work to stop bed-wetting include imipramine (sold under the brand name Tofranil), oxybutynin (sold as Ditropan) and hyoscyamine (sold as Levsin). Tofranil is an antidepressant believed to release tension in the muscles around the bladder. Ditropan and Levsin each reduce bladder contractions and, consequently, reduce the urge to urinate.
