Enuresis
Alternate Names : Bedwetting, Bladder Incontinence, Loss of Bladder Control, Uncontrollable Urination
What are the treatments for the condition?
Treatment of enuresis falls into three categories. These are behavioral,
medication, and counseling. Usually more than one treatment is used at a time.
Behavioral treatment includes:
behavioral rewards for achieving bladder control
bladder training, such as bladder stretching exercises to gradually
increase the size of the bladder
conditioning methods, such as using a bedwetting alarm that awakens the
child if the bed gets wet
decreasing evening fluids
teaching the child to attend and respond to bladder sensations at
night
Medication is not the first treatment choice. It is often not used at all.
Medication is used only when the problem interferes with the child's ability to
function or only for special occasions.
Counseling alone is rarely effective. A behavioral treatment regime needs to be
established. Managing family
stress and tension is important.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Medications used to treat enuresis may cause allergic reactions. One drawback to medications is that
the bedwetting typically returns when the medication is stopped.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Once the child has regained control over his urination, the
problem is generally resolved. However, factors such as stress or another urinary tract infection may cause
another episode of enuresis.
How is the condition monitored?
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare
provider.
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