Why Do Children & Teens Wet the Bed during Sleep | Bedwetting

8 Main Reasons Why Do Children & Teens Wet the Bed during Sleep | bed-wetting

Bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is a common concern for many parents. It refers to the involuntary release of urine during sleep in children and teenagers. This condition can be frustrating and embarrassing for those affected, but it’s important to understand that bedwetting is a normal part of development for many individuals. In this article, we will explore the reasons why children and teens wet the bed during sleep and discuss strategies for managing this common issue.

Bedwetting is a prevalent condition that affects millions of children and teenagers worldwide. It is very common in babies but it is serious when a child is above 5 years and wet the bed at night. Sometimes, a child wet the bed till 7 to 10 years of age. According to a general survey, 20% of children have some problems with bedwetting at age of 5, and up to 10% still do at the age of 7 years. It has been also observed that few children wet the bed till their early teenage.

8 Main Reasons for bed-wetting

Bedwetting can have various causes, ranging from developmental factors to physical and psychological issues. Understanding these causes can help parents and caregivers better support their child and seek appropriate treatment options. Among the below reasons, no one knows for sure what causes bed-wetting for their child but any of the factors can play a role.

1. Genetics

There is evidence to suggest that bedwetting can run in families and genetic connection can be the one of the main reasons for bedwetting. If a child’s parent (likely both) wet the bed in their childhood, the child may have the same problem. According to a general survey, 40% of children wet the bed only because their parents wet the bed during their childhood. Genetic factors can influence bladder function and contribute to the development of bedwetting.

2. A small bladder or Delayed Development

In many cases, bedwetting is simply a result of delayed development. It may happen that a child’s bladder may not be developed enough to hold urine produced for a long duration. In the daytime, they urinate hourly but at night their bladder cannot hold urine and the child wet the bed unconsciously. As the child grows and their neurological and bladder functions develop, bedwetting tends to resolve on its own. Some children may have smaller-than-average bladder capacity, which means they can hold less urine before needing to empty their bladder. This can contribute to more frequent nighttime urination and bedwetting.

3. Inability to recognize a full bladder.

Sometimes it also happens because of a weak nervous system.  If the nerves that control the bladder fail to recognize whether the bladder is full or not and nerves may not wake the child because of a full bladder. It happens especially when a child is a deep sleeper.

4. Bladder or kidney disease.

If a child has both daytime and nighttime bladder control problems and other bladder symptoms such as pain when peeing or any kidney disease (The kidneys make more urine at night) can cause bed wetting.

5. Deep sleep

Children who experience deep sleep patterns may not fully awaken when their bladder is full, leading to bedwetting. Moreover, Children who are deep sleepers and disturbed by any reason like snoring, television, or traffic noise, such children are more likely to wet the bed. These individuals may have difficulty responding to signals from their bladder indicating the need to urinate.

6. Stress and Anxiety

Stress is one of the main reasons for multiple issues and bedwetting is one of those. Children who experience anxiety or high levels of stress may be more prone to bedwetting. Emotional factors can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to bladder control issues during the night. Children have stress for multiple reasons that include:  when moving to a hostel or school for the first time, losing their pet, seeing their parents’ separation, losing a person they love, or going through another event that is undesired for them. Treating stress can reduce the frequency of bedwetting in children.

7. Medical

There are multiple medical reasons that can cause bed wetting in children and young teenagers. Bedwetting can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Conditions such as diabetes mellitus, sleep apnea, urinary tract abnormalities, and chronic kidney disease can affect bladder control and lead to bedwetting episodes. Identifying and treating these conditions is essential for managing bedwetting effectively.

8. Neurologic disease

Sometimes, there can be a problem with the brain or nerves (spinal cord problem) that can cause bedwetting. However, this is a very rare cause of bedwetting. Sometimes, the brain can’t wake the body up during sleep and a child wet the bed in sleep.

 Treatment Options for Bedwetting

Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to help manage and overcome bedwetting.

Medications

In certain cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage bedwetting. You can use medicines to get rid of bedwetting. There are two suggested medicines for bedwetting: imipramine and desmopressin. One thing to keep in mind that that bedwetting usually returns once medicines are stopped unless the child has “grown out of” nocturnal enuresis. These medications work by reducing urine production at night or relaxing the bladder muscles. However, medication should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional and is usually considered when other treatment methods have been ineffective.

Behavioral interventions

Behavioral interventions are often the first line of treatment for bedwetting. These include establishing a regular bathroom routine, encouraging the child to empty their bladder before bedtime, and using bedwetting alarms to wake the child when they start to wet the bed. Bedwetting alarms are devices that emit a sound or vibration when they detect moisture, waking the child and alerting them to empty their bladder. Over time, these alarms can help the child develop better bladder control and overcome bedwetting.

Therapy and counseling

In some situations, therapy or counseling may be beneficial, especially if bedwetting is linked to emotional stressors or underlying psychological issues. A mental health professional can help the child develop coping strategies and address any emotional challenges related to bedwetting.

 Tips for Parents to Manage Bedwetting

Parents play a crucial role in supporting their child through the bedwetting phase. Here are some helpful tips:

Encourage open communication

Create a safe and supportive environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their bedwetting. Encourage them to express their feelings and reassure them that bedwetting is a common issue that many children experience.

Create a supportive environment

Use protective bedding such as waterproof mattress covers to make cleanup easier. Avoid punishing or shaming your child for bedwetting, as this can worsen their self-esteem and make the problem more challenging to overcome.

Limit fluids before bedtime

Limiting the amount of fluids your child consumes in the evening, especially caffeinated and sugary beverages, can reduce the likelihood of bedwetting. Encourage them to drink plenty of fluids earlier in the day to stay hydrated.

Use protective bedding

Invest in absorbent and waterproof bedding materials to protect the mattress and sheets from urine accidents. This can make cleanup easier and minimize discomfort for the child.

Reward systems and motivation

Implementing a reward system or providing incentives for dry nights can help motivate your child and reinforce positive behavior. Celebrate their successes and offer encouragement along the way.

Seek professional help when needed

If bedwetting persists despite your efforts and causes significant distress for your child or family, do not hesitate to seek professional help. A healthcare provider or specialist can provide further guidance, support, and treatment options tailored to your child’s specific needs.

Bedwetting myths debunked

There are common myths and misconceptions surrounding bedwetting that can lead to misunderstandings. Let’s debunk a few of them:

Punishment and shame

Contrary to popular belief, punishment and shaming tactics are not effective in treating bedwetting. They can harm a child’s self-esteem and worsen the emotional impact of bedwetting. It is essential to approach bedwetting with understanding and support.

Deep-rooted psychological issues

While bedwetting can sometimes be associated with emotional stressors, it is important to note that it is not typically a sign of deep-rooted psychological issues. Most cases of bedwetting are related to developmental factors, physical aspects, or temporary disruptions in bladder control.

 Conclusion

Bedwetting is a common occurrence among children and teenagers, and it can have various causes ranging from developmental factors to physical and psychological issues. Understanding the underlying reasons behind bedwetting can help parents and caregivers provide the necessary support and explore appropriate treatment options. By creating a supportive environment, implementing behavioral interventions, and seeking professional help when needed, bedwetting can be effectively managed and overcome. Remember, patience, understanding, and open communication are key in helping your child navigate through this phase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can bedwetting be inherited?   

Yes, bedwetting can have a genetic component. If one or both parents experienced bedwetting during childhood, there is a higher likelihood that their child may also wet the bed. However, it is not solely determined by genetics, and other factors can contribute to bedwetting as well.

2. Will my child outgrow bedwetting?

In most cases, children eventually outgrow bedwetting as their bladder control improves with age. However, the timing can vary for each child. It is important to be patient and provide support during this phase.

3. Is bedwetting a sign of emotional disturbance?

Bedwetting is not typically a sign of emotional disturbance. While emotional stressors can contribute to bedwetting episodes, most cases are related to developmental factors, physical aspects, or temporary disruptions in bladder control.

4. Should I wake my child up to use the bathroom at night?

Waking your child up to use the bathroom at night may disrupt their sleep patterns and may not be an effective long-term solution. Instead, focus on implementing a regular bathroom routine before bedtime and using bedwetting alarms to help develop better bladder control.

5. Can bedwetting be a symptom of an underlying health problem?

In some cases, bedwetting can be a symptom of an underlying health problem such as a urinary tract infection or sleep disorder. If you have concerns about your child’s bedwetting, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.