Question
My daughter sleeps very soundly at night and urinates without waking up. She often wets the bed. What are the causes and related treatment methods for this condition? Thank you!
Answer
Bedwetting in children, known as enuresis, refers to the condition where a child over the age of three urinates in bed during sleep without being able to control their bladder. This condition can lead to weakness and affect the child’s physical health and intellectual development, as well as cause distress to the family. There are generally two types of enuresis in children: functional and organic. Most cases of bedwetting are functional, typically caused by a dysfunction in the higher brain functions. Common reasons include excessive fatigue, stress, sudden fright, fear of change, lack of habitual nighttime urination, and other factors. In rare cases, enuresis is organic, often due to conditions such as spina bifida, spinal meningitis, spinal cord injury, epilepsy, brain developmental disorders, small bladder capacity, urinary tract infections, bladder stones, phimosis, anal fissure, pinworm infection, etc. For organic causes, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Once the underlying condition is treated, the bedwetting should improve. For functional enuresis, there are effective treatment options. Here are some important points to consider: ① Parents should treat their child’s bedwetting with understanding and support rather than punishment or neglect. ② Reduce mental stress on the child. By the age of three, children begin to understand more, and parents should encourage and comfort them, explaining that enuresis is a temporary functional disorder that can be cured. ③ Establish a reasonable daily routine. Avoid over-exertion during the day and encourage a one to two hour nap in the afternoon to help reduce the likelihood of bedwetting.