Most of the children faces problem of bed wetting. Bed wetting problem in medical term is called as "Enuresis". Bed wetting is
not only uncomfortable, but also embarrassing and interfere with a child's enjoyment of life. About 5 million to 7 million children has this problem. Bed wetting is common in preschool children. Mostly it is common in boys than in girls. Bed wetting generally declines with age. It is not mental or behavior problem.
Types of Bed wetting-
Bed wetting can be divided into two types-
Primary enuresis
Secondary enuresis
Primary Enuresis
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The problems are considered as primary if child has been always wet at night and only occasionally dry at night. Most of the children suffer from primary enuresis. Primary enuresis is often inherited. It is due to physical and psychological factors.
Secondary Enuresis-
Children who have been dry at night for considerable period but wet only occasionally, faces secondary enuresis. This is usually related to child’s stresses. One should find out what has changed. There may be psychological stress like hospitalization, entering school, divorce or birth of sibling or it might be situational change. Also it might be some physical problem. If symptoms continued, you should consult doctor.
Causes of bed wetting
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- Imbalance of bladder muscles.
- Hormonal factors.
- Urinary tract infection
- Abnormalities in spinal cord.
- Deep sleeping pattern
- Incapability to hold urine for long time because of small bladder.
Effects of bed wetting on child-
Bed wetting can cause behavior problems because child feels embarrassment and culpable. They try to avoid social activities which need to sleep outside home. They suffer from low self esteem. Parents also may feel frustrated and embarrassed.
Help your child understanding bed wetting-
You need to be patient while handling this problem. Reassure child that it is normal at this age. It is important for child to know that bed wetting is not his/her fault. Explain your child what is exactly bed wetting and its reasons. Tell your child about treatments of bed wetting.
Treatments on bed wetting-
Mostly this problem goes with the age. But if bed wetting is constant you need to consult doctor. You need not to give any treatment to child if he is suffering primary enuresis. But if he is facing secondary enuresis then you should consult doctor. There are two types of treatments-Behavior therapy and medicine.
Behavior therapy
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Behavior treatment is more effective and safe than medical treatment. This treatment includes-
- Avoiding your child to drink large amount of fluid two hours before bedtime.
- Have your child use the toilet just before going to sleep.
- Use reward system for dry nights.
- Ask your child to change bed sheets when he/she wets bed.
- Use a plastic cover between sheet and mattress.
- Consider bladder training which will help your child to overcome bed wetting problem.
- Use a moisture alarm which is very useful and successful way to treat bed wetting.
- Hypnosis is also an effective way to treat bed wetting.
Medical Treatment
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Medical treatment consists of use of Imipramine or Desmpressin acetate drug. Doctor will recommend appropriate medicine for your child.
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