Behavioral problems can occur in children who leak urine while they sleep
Pediatric urology specialist Prof. Dr. Cevdet Kaya made statements about sleep incontinence in children.
“IT MAY BE CLOSED”
Claiming that urinary incontinence during sleep, called “nocturnal enuresis” in medicine, is quite common in children. Dr Kaya said it is not considered medically normal to be seen in children over the age of 5 and is a condition that requires treatment.
Prof. Dr. Kaya said: “Children with bedwetting can sometimes bedwett every night, sometimes 2-3 times a week and sometimes several times a night. We have studies showing that children who wet the bed can have behavioral problems such as dropping out of school, tending to stay away from social environments and introversion.”
“THEY MAY HAVE A DEEP SLEEPING PROBLEM BEHIND”
Referring to the reasons why bedwetting is seen in some children and not in others, Prof. Dr. Kaya shared the following information:
“First of all, family factors come to the fore. Parents or close relatives of bed-wetting children are also more likely to experience bed-wetting during childhood. The second reason is deep sleep problems. Some of these children have been shown to have more difficulty sleeping and waking up. Another reason is excessively active bladder contractions, that is, urinary incontinence with contractions at inappropriate times, such as during sleep.
“FURTHER INVESTIGATIONS MAY BE REQUIRED”
Speaking about the diagnosis and treatment process, Prof. Dr. Kaya said: “Although the diagnosis of bedwetting is made with a careful history and simple urinalysis, ultrasound of the urinary system and necessary further investigations may sometimes be required. Fluid restriction, motivation and medical treatment are applied in the treatment of children who only wet the bed at night. Another medical treatment is also added to the prescription for children with daytime bedwetting.
“DO NOT BLAME YOUR CHILD”
Making suggestions for families to apply them, Prof. Dr. Kaya said: “If your bed-wetting child is over 5 years old, consult a pediatric urology doctor at the most appropriate time. The child should not be blamed for bedwetting. Treatment is even easier at a young age. Since children with daytime bedwetting may need further investigation and treatment, your child’s toileting habits should be monitored during the day at school or at home.