In this blog you will read about what you can do about bedwetting as a child or adult. We list the facts and myths about bedwetting for you.
What is bedwetting anyway?
Bedwetting is medically termed nycturia or nocturia and is a common sleep disorder in children and adults. It is not only very annoying, but also often leads to social anxiety and sleep problems. Fortunately, there are now many ways to treat bedwetting.
What are the causes of bedwetting in adults?
Bedwetting is most common in (young) children and very limited in adults, and more common in men than in women. It is different from incontinence because bedwetters do not suffer from anything when they are awake during the day.
In the past, psychological causes were thought to underlie the problem. Meanwhile, medical science has evolved and we know that there can be many different causes for bedwetting as an adult.
One of the possible causes of bedwetting in adults is an overactive bladder. In this case, the bladder may contract unexpectedly and uncontrollably and urine is excreted unintentionally. A urinary tract infection can also irritate the bladder and cause a greater urge to urinate, including during sleep.
Specifically in men, an enlarged prostate can lead to bedwetting. And neurological conditions such as MS and Parkinson’s can also affect the ability to control the bladder and thus lead to bedwetting. People facing sleep apnea also report this additional complaint.
What can I do about bedwetting?
Fortunately, there are several treatment options for bedwetting. Nycturia as a cause of an underlying disease usually disappears if the underlying disease is also treated. Of course, you always consult a doctor or specialized urologist to discuss and examine the problem in detail.
But what are the best ways to treat bedwetting? We list them briefly for you:
- Bladder control exercises: Exercises aimed at controlling the bladder, such as holding up urine while urinating, can help reduce bedwetting.
- Adjustments in drinking patterns: It sounds obvious, but drinking less before bedtime can help.
- Use of a bedwetting alarm: Provided proper supervision, a bedwetting alarm can provide relief. Doctors recommend not using this method for more than 4 months and really press the importance of counseling. Because if used incorrectly, there is a risk that bedwetting will just be taught. And that is not desirable. There are also variants with a vibration function for the deaf and hard of hearing.
- Consult a doctor: A doctor can help you by prescribing medication that relaxes the bladder and reduces urination frequency.
Sleep apnea and bedwetting
If bedwetting occurs during sleep apnea, sleep apnea treatment will often resolve the complaint. Wearing a CPAP mask or taking appropriate medication can help reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea and thus bedwetting.
Always contact your doctor or urologist when bedwetting occurs and get help. And you can also learn more about bedwetting and its treatment methods through this, admittedly somewhat outdated but relevant, Dutch website.
Solution for bedwetting in child?
Most of the time, bedwetting goes away on its own. Punishing children who bedwash makes it worse in most cases. You can reduce bedwetting by letting your child pee before bedtime. Avoid using diapers for children who bedwash.
Is bedwetting bad?
Bedwetting is basically harmless, but a very annoying problem. Bedwetting is mainly a problem in young children. Usually bedwetting decreases naturally with age.
You can also suffer from bedwetting as an adult. There may be several reasons for this. Even though bedwetting is harmless, it may indicate an illness or ailment that requires your attention. Therefore, consult a doctor if you suffer from regular bedwetting.
Conclusion
Bedwetting is especially a problem in younger children. It is harmless, but very annoying. Usually bedwetting decreases with age, but adults can also suffer from bedwetting. This can be a sign that there is a disease in the body.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the causes of bedwetting?
Bedwetting in young children is quite normal and goes away on its own. Among adults, there may be several causes, such as infection or other conditions.
Up to what age is bedwetting normal?
Bedwetting is common in young children, especially those 5 to 6 years old. At this age, about 15% urinate in bed. Bedwetting disappears on its own.
From what age can my child sleep without a diaper?
In most cases, your child can sleep without a diaper at night if he or she is potty-trained during the day. For children over the age of five who bedwash, wearing a diaper is not recommended.
