Treating Your Child's Nocturnal Enuresis, or Bed Wetting

This is a problem that affects many children, so parents you are not alone and it can be treated. Every mom dreads the endless washing of soiled sheets and pajamas. It is also very embarrassing for most kids. Nocturnal Enuresis is the medical label for bed-wetting. What it means is an involuntary loss of urine, which occurs at night at an age when control of nighttime urination would be expected. This occurs to most children between the ages of 3 and 5, although some children as old as 14 may have this problem. Also boys are affected more frequently than girls.

What causes this problem? It can sometimes be caused by disease, such as a urinary infection, diabetes, food allergies, or some type of a physical abnormality of the bladder and kidneys. If the problem continues after the age five or six a medical evaluation may be necessary. The actual cause of bedwetting is still unknown. If a child has had control of urination for at least six months or longer and then resumes bed-wetting an emotional upset can be the cause. Such things as the arrival of a new baby, a new stepparent, moving to a new home, or other family problems can be the cause. As a result of bed wetting many emotional disturbances may arise such as a feeling of guilt, loss of self-esteem and anxiety.

How can you help!

The very worst thing that you can do is to threaten them. This will only make the situation worse not better. You should never become angry and punish them. This will only cause them more stress. Try your best to reduce the emotional impact on your child. Comfort them and let them know that these things happen and that it is ok. Make sure that the treatment does not cause more harm than the problem. Some doctors feel there is no real need for treatment until at least the age six. Wetting the bed is normal for children under this age. It’s also easier to treat older children. You should make sure you use the plastic mattress cover or absorbent pads to protect the mattress. Also get the child involved in helping with the cleanup.