Bed wetting is a problem that affects nearly 20 million Americans. This problem effects one of every 4 years olds and one of every 6 years olds. If your child is over seven years old you are probably questioning whether your child is going to grow out of this problem.
Enuresis is more prevalent among boys than it is girls. Most children do outgrow this problem by the age of five. Over 90% of bed wetting is a genetic sleep disorder. This causes a state of sleep that is so deep that the signal to the brain that the bladder is full doesn't arouse the child. Therefore, they wet they bed.
The older the child the less chance you have of your child outgrowing the bed wetting. This problem causes embarrassment and restrictions for the child. Obviously the on going cleaning of laundry and bedclothes can become expensive also.
There are several solutions that you can try to help support your child during this difficult time. You can set an alarm for the child to wake up after approximately four to five hours of sleep. This will work sometimes as an intervention for the child to release their bladder appropriately. The child can also sleep through the alarm since the child is such a deep sleeper. Your family physician is also another solution source. Drug therapy can be very helpful if the problem is oraganic. You could also restrict beverages before your child's bedtime. This is helpful at times, but your body continues to create urine without water intake so make sure your child releases their bladder before bed. Other times the parents will try and wake the child before they retire for bed. This method can be exhausting for both child and parents.
Seeking professional help and support may be necessary to determine how to help your child. There is a strong correlation to child abuse and bed wetting. Please understand that your child needs help and not discipline in this area. Explore this options and then seek professional help so your child feels supported during this difficult time.
Best wishes,
Gina
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