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Enuresis, more commonly known as bed-wetting is common in young children. Around 15-20% of children have some degree of bed-wetting at 5 years of age, with a spontaneous resolution of approximately 15% a year. Read to learn more about the definition, causes, types and management of enuresis.
Enuresis (the medical term for bed-wetting) is defined as involuntary bladder emptying (urinary incontinence) in a child, at or above the age of 5, who is considered adequately mature to have achieved continence. It is the most common urological disorder in children. The bladder functions to both store and eliminates urine. Urinary continence is dependent upon a complex interaction between different factors and the nervous system. Any disturbance in the balance can contribute to enuresis.
There are two types of enuresis: nocturnal (nighttime) and diurnal (daytime). Nocturnal enuresis is much more common than diurnal enuresis. And each type can be further classified as either primary or secondary enuresis.
Enuresis is most commonly functional and very often has no identifiable cause in children. Examples of causes of primary enuresis include:
Causes of secondary enuresis include:
Enuresis can only be diagnosed when other medical disorders that can cause incontinence have been ruled out. Doctors will take a thorough medical history and perform a physical examination.
Urinalysis and blood tests may be required to look for infection, and evaluate blood sugar levels, hormone levels and kidney function.
Enuresis may not require any treatment in mild cases as most children will outgrow it with time. Knowing when to begin treatment is challenging, some general measures to help manage enuresis in children include:
Primary enuresis is defined as never having been dry (or continent). Whereas secondary enuresis is defined as having attained continence for at least 6 months before beginning to have episodes of incontinence again.
Enuresis can be inherited. It is known that if both parents had enuresis, their children are more likely to have the condition.
Enuresis is most commonly functional and has no identifiable cause in children. It can also occur secondary to constipation, urinary tract infection, impaired kidney function, other medical disorders such as diabetes, and emotional or psychological disturbances.
This article was independently written by Healthy Matters and is not sponsored. It is informative only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be relied upon for specific medical advice.
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