Bed-wetting may be a common problem in many households with young children, but it is usually not a cause of alarm. Bed-wetting does not mean that your child has not been properly toiler trained; it is a normal part of growing up in many children and can be dealt with very easily.
Another name for bed-wetting is nighttime incontinence or nocturnal enuresis. In most cases, if children under 6 to 7 years of age cause bed-wetting, it is not a cause for concern. Your child is simply still developing his or her nighttime bladder control.
Manage the issue with understanding and patience if it is persistent. You can improvise with moisture alarms or prescription drugs to help reduce the frequency of bed-wetting in your home.
Signs and symptoms
Bed-wetting is an involuntary problem that takes place when a child is asleep.
Although most kids are toilet trained up until they are 4, they may continue bed-wetting as there is no exact age for developing complete control over the bladder. Some children by the age of 5 continue bed-wetting – this is common in 15 percent of the children. Even 5 percent of children between the ages of 8 and 11 may wet their beds as well.
When to seek medical attention
Bed-wetting is a problem that is out-grown on its own but some children may require a little help. However, there are cases in which bed-wetting may signal an underlying health condition.
Treatment for bed wetting (7 year-old boy) – Gonstead Chiropractic Singapore
See your doctor if:
- Bed-wetting occurs after the age of 6 or 7
- Your child begins bed-wetting after a period of dry nights
- Bed-wetting occurs along with painful urination, pink urine, unusual thirst or snoring
Treatment
Bed-wetting is a problem that can be treated easily at home. If these methods do not work, you may see a doctor for prescription medications or other treatment methods.
- Limit the amount of water your child drinks during the evening. Allowing your child to drink 8 ounces of water should be enough, however, if needed; you may consult your doctor if this is suitable for your child. As a rule of thumb, your child should drink 40 percent of fluids consumed between 7 a.m. and noon, another 40 percent within noon and 5 p.m. and only 20 percent after 5. However, make sure you do not limit liquids if your child is very active or participates in sports and games during the evening time.
- Avoid caffeine beverages and foods during the evening. Caffeine increases the urge to urinate therefore, avoid giving your child cola or chocolate in the evening.
- Encourage your child to double void at night. This means your child has to urinate before bedtime and before falling asleep. Encourage your child to use the toilet, whenever he needs to and facilitate this using night lights.
- Ensure that your child uses the toilet throughout the day. During daytime and evening, ask your child to use the toiler every two hours.
- Treat constipation. Constipation can be treated with prescription stool softeners for children.