At what ages does nocturnal enuresis usually occur?

It is a very common pathology in young children, and it normally tends to disappear as they grow older. Although you as a parent may perceive this as abnormal, it is no reason to worry. Just remember to be patient with them. Occasional involuntary urination while sleeping is a normal period in the child’s development. The scope of consciousness in developing bladder control is particular in each child, and they do it at their own pace. Not all children manage to control their bladder before they are 3 years old.

Some of the causes of nocturnal enuresis

Enuresis essentially has two types: organic and non-organic.

The organic type may come from another disease that the child may be suffering from such as urinary tract infections, existence of dysuria, existence of polydipsia, presence of constipation, distal chemical urethritis, congenital anomalies, among others.

These causes do not usually exceed 1% of children suffering from nocturnal enuresis. One must be alert with them if the child continues to present nocturnal enuresis even when he is over 8 years old.

Non-organic type includes hereditary components and stressful situations such as anxiety, the divorce of parents, death of a relative, change of residence or school, etc.

Should you call the doctor for nocturnal enuresis? 

Nocturnal enuresis is not a pathology that requires going to the doctor; since in most cases, it is normal and is existing within the child’s development. But nevertheless; If the child is over 8 years old, attending the doctor will help rule out the suffering of any other related illness or simply detect those external factors that may be favoring the existence of bedwetting.

Nighttime incontinence treatment

After a medical evaluation, an appropriate treatment is applied.

If the condition of another disease is detected, such as those of an organic type, the doctor will prescribe the corresponding treatment or actions.

If there are no other underlying diseases, it is normal for it to disappear over time after reaching 6-7 years of age. However, if at this age, the child continues to pee in bed, it would be important to take into account the psychological effects that may be causing this. You can do a few to ensure that your child gets over this habit as early as possible. These include:

• Have the child urinate before going to bed.
• Try to prevent the child from drinking liquids 2 to 3 hours before going to bed.
• Perform bladder exercises that help strengthen it.
• Remind the child to get up at night to go to the bathroom; you can use an alarm at a certain time.
• Do not be upset and do not scold the child as it might affect his self-esteem; on the contrary, encourage him by telling him that this will be solved over time.

In specific cases, the doctor prescribes the use of Desmopressin (DDAVP) or antidiuretic hormone. This is a drug that reduces the generation of urine. It can be helpful in specific situations, for example, when the child will be sleeping at a friend’s home. This will help the child to avoid an uncomfortable situation of shame,  affecting his emotional state.