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Enuresis
What Is Enuresis?
Enuresis is more commonly known as bed-wetting. Nocturnal enuresis, or bed-wetting at night, is the most common type of elimination disorder. Daytime wetting is called diurnal enuresis. Some children experience either or a combination of both.
This behavior may or may not be purposeful. The condition is not diagnosed unless the child is 5 years or older.
What Are the Symptoms of Enuresis?
The main symptoms of enuresis include:
•Repeated bed-wetting
•Wetting in the clothes
•Wetting at least twice a week for approximately three months
What Causes Enuresis?
Many factors may be involved in the development of enuresis. Involuntary, or non-intentional, release of urine may result from:
•A small bladder
•Persistent urinary tract infections
•Severe stress
•Developmental delays that interfere with toilet training
Voluntary, or intentional, enuresis may be associated with other mental disorders, including behavior disorders or emotional disorders such as anxiety. In addition, toilet training that was forced or started when the child was too young may be a factor in the development of the disorder, although there is little research to make conclusions about the role of toilet training and the development of enuresis.
Children with enuresis are often described as heavy sleepers who fail to awaken at the urinary urge to void or when their bladders are full.
How Common Is Enuresis?
Enuresis is a common childhood problem. Estimates suggest that 7% of boys and 3% of girls age 5 have enuresis.