Enuresis

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Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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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.
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.
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.