Enuresis

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Enuresis
File:He suddenly had to pee.jpg
Synonyms Bedwetting, urinary incontinence
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Involuntary urination, especially during sleep
Complications Emotional distress, social stigma
Onset Common in children
Duration Varies; often resolves with age
Types N/A
Causes Genetics, hormonal factors, bladder dysfunction
Risks Family history, stress, sleep apnea
Diagnosis Medical history, physical examination, urinalysis
Differential diagnosis Diabetes mellitus, urinary tract infection, seizure disorder
Prevention Limiting fluid intake before bed, bladder training
Treatment Behavioral therapy, medication, alarm therapy
Medication Desmopressin, anticholinergics
Prognosis N/A
Frequency Affects 5-10% of children aged 5, decreases with age
Deaths None directly


Enuresis is a medical condition characterized by involuntary urination, especially by children at night, also known as bedwetting. It is a common condition, affecting millions of children worldwide.

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Enuresis-Weckapparat

Definition[edit]

Enuresis is defined as the repeated inability to control urination. It can be classified into two types: Primary Enuresis and Secondary Enuresis. Primary Enuresis refers to children who have never been consistently dry at night, while Secondary Enuresis refers to children who have been dry for at least six months and then start wetting the bed again.

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Causes[edit]

The exact cause of enuresis is unknown, but it is believed to be a result of a combination of genetic, physiological and psychological factors. Some of the common causes include:

  • Genetic Factors: Enuresis tends to run in families. Children are more likely to wet the bed if one or both of their parents did so as children.
  • Physiological Factors: These include a small bladder, inability to recognize bladder filling when asleep, and producing a large amount of urine during the evening and night.
  • Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and changes in the child's life can trigger enuresis.

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for enuresis varies depending on the cause and the child's age. It may include:

  • Behavioral Therapy: This includes methods such as bladder training, moisture alarms, and rewards for dry nights.
  • Medication: Certain medications can help reduce bedwetting.
  • Psychotherapy: If the enuresis is caused by stress or anxiety, psychotherapy may be helpful.

See Also[edit]

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