Treatment and Prevention of Bedwetting in Children

Question

My son is 9 years old, and he still frequently wets the bed. Is this a disease? How can it be treated or prevented?

Answer

Based on your description, it may be considered enuresis. Here are the treatment and prevention methods for enuresis:

• Adjust diet: Reduce fluid intake after 4 PM, have dinner with a salty and dry taste, avoid drinking water before bedtime (except in summer), and refrain from eating fruits like watermelons, oranges, and pears, as well as milk.
• Establish a reasonable lifestyle: Maintain regularity in your child’s routine, avoid overexertion and stress, and try to ensure they have a nap during the day.
• Avoid excessive excitement before bedtime: Do not play with your child before bedtime, avoid vigorous activities, and do not watch thrilling movies or TV shows.
• Empty the bladder before going to bed: Encourage your child to urinate before bedtime.
• Change wet bedding and clothes promptly: Replace wet bedding and clothes immediately to prevent your child from sleeping in a damp environment.
• Be aware of psychological factors: Punishing or threatening may increase your child’s psychological stress, which is not beneficial for improving bedwetting. Parents should note that bedwetting may lead to feelings of shame, anxiety, fear, and timidity in children. Respect your child’s self-esteem.