General Information About Urinary Incontinence - Voiding Disorders in Children
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the involuntary leakage of urine during the day or night in a child who is expected to have gained toilet control (generally older than 5 years).
Daytime incontinence is usually related to bladder dysfunction, urinary tract infections, or the habit of holding urine. Nighttime bedwetting is more related to genetic factors, difficulty waking up, and bladder capacity.
Nighttime bedwetting can be considered a part of normal development up to age 5. Urinary incontinence that continues after age 5 or starts suddenly months after toilet training is completed should be investigated.
Genetic predisposition (history in parents), a small/overactive bladder, deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (the hormone that reduces urine production at night), severe constipation, and psychological stress are the most common causes.
Psychological factors such as parents' divorce or the birth of a sibling can underlie daytime incontinence or bedwetting that begins later (secondary); however, most cases of nighttime bedwetting that have persisted since birth are physical and developmental.
If there is constipation or an infection, they are treated first. For nighttime incontinence, fluid restriction, 'bedwetting alarm devices' attached to underwear (conditioned reflex training), and, when necessary, medications regulating bladder capacity/hormone balance are used.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
