Why some kids wet the bed and what parents can do about it

Bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis, is involuntary urination during sleep, a common issue in children, especially those younger than 5, that often resolves on its own but may require medical attention if it continues past age 7 or follows a period of dryness. It may rarely be a sign of a medical problem, although that usually is not the case. There are two kinds of bedwetting: primary and secondary. Primary bedwetting is wetting the bed most nights since birth. Secondary bedwetting is when a child starts to wet the bed at least six months after they have learned to control their bladder at night.It is normal for children under the age of 5 or 6 to wet the bed sometimes. In fact, about 20% of 5-year-old children wet the bed. Older children are also affected: 3% of 10-year-olds and up to 1% of 18-year-olds wet the bed. Bedwetting tends to be more common in males. Every year, about 15% of children will outgrow the problem. Treatment may help speed up the process, helping children overcome bedwetting sooner.Causes Children do not wet the bed out of laziness or because they do not care. Many young children simply haven't fully developed the brain signals to wake up when their bladder is full. Bedwetting can run in families, suggesting a genetic link. Many children who wet the bed have a parent or family member who did as well.Other possible causes of night-time urine accidents include:When to See a paediatric urologistConsult a paediatric urologist if:• Your child is still wetting the bed after age 7. • Suddenly starts wetting the bed after being consistently dry for at least six months• Begins to wet their pants during the day• Bedwetting is accompanied by other symptoms like pain while passing urine, increased thirst, swelling of feet or ankles, pinkish or red urine, hard stools, or snoring. Management The most important thing as parents is be patient and understanding. Make sure the child knows that bedwetting is a temporary problem, and it is not their fault! Treatment options range from lifestyle to medical interventions and treating any underlying conditions.Home & Lifestyle StrategiesMedical & Behavioural Treatments • Moisture Alarms: These devices detect moisture and alert the child to wake up.• Medications: A doctor may prescribe medication, such as desmopressin, which reduces urine production.• Treating Underlying Conditions: Addressing issues like constipation or sleep apnea can resolve bedwetting.Key points to remember(Dr Ashwin Shekar P, Consultant Pediatric & Transitional Urologist, Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology Hyderabad)