General Information About Nocturnal Enuresis
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a condition where a child whose physical development is sufficient for toilet control (older than 5 years of age) involuntarily wets their bed while asleep at night.
Familial genetic predisposition (similar history in parents), a small bladder capacity, inability to feel bladder fullness due to deep sleep, and a deficiency of the hormone (ADH) that reduces urine production at night are the main causes.
Wetting that begins after months of staying dry post-toilet training (secondary enuresis) may have psychological origins such as stress, the birth of a sibling, or moving. However, wetting that has persisted since birth (primary enuresis) is generally entirely physiological and developmental.
If bedwetting continues after the child passes the age of 5, if daytime urinary incontinence also begins, or if there is a burning sensation while urinating (suspicion of infection), a doctor should be consulted.
A urinalysis is performed to rule out diseases like urinary tract infections or diabetes. A Urinary Ultrasound may be requested to examine the anatomy of the kidneys and bladder.
Evening fluid intake is restricted. The first-line treatment involves 'Bedwetting Alarm Devices' that are attached to underwear and ring at the first drop, waking the child (conditioned reflex training). In cases that do not respond, medications that reduce nighttime urine production or enlarge the bladder are prescribed.
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.
