Enuresis is a condition which affects a large number of children. It is usually something that they grow out of but it is worth understanding nonetheless.
What Is Enuresis?
Enuresis is the scientific term for bedwetting and is what is known as an ‘elimination disorder’. The most common form of enuresis, nocturnal enuresis, occurs at night, usually while the child is asleep. When enuresis occurs during the day, it is known as diurnal enuresis. It is possible for children to experience both.
What Causes Enuresis?
There are a number of factors which may be involved in a case of enuresis. For some children, the problem is a psychological one, for others it is rooted in physical causes, for example a small bladder.
Severe stress is the most common psychological trigger for the condition. It is not uncommon for the behavior to appear when the child is going through a difficult time, for example their parents are divorcing, or they are moving away from their current friends and surroundings.
If the causes are physical, then it may be due to a smaller than average bladder, persistent urinary tract infections, or a problem between the bladder and the urethra.
Enuresis can be either voluntary or involuntary. Voluntary, or intentional, enuresis is associated with a number of other psychiatric disorders, and it is usually seen in children who have already been diagnosed with an emotional or behavioral disorder. It is usually children who are prone to anxiety that exhibit signs of voluntary enuresis.
What Are the Symptoms?
The most prominent and obvious sign of enuresis is bedwetting. In order to be diagnosed as enuresis the child in question must be over five years old, and the wetting must occur at least twice a week for a sustained duration, usually defined as three months or more.
Treatment
Treatment will depend upon what determination the doctor makes as to the root cause of the problem. For many children, some form of therapy can help. The problem is often at least partially rooted in a psychological cause and identifying and addressing this will be the most effective treatment for most children.
Urologists won’t always recommend treatment, especially if it is not believed to be indicative of a more serious underlying mental health issue. Most children who experience enuresis will outgrow the condition before long.
If you think that your child might be suffering with enuresis then give our clinic a call today to consult with the finest urologist in NYC.