#asktheexpert my son is 5 year old but he is doing bet wetting every night even in the afternoon also pls suggest

Question

Accepted Answer

Bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis, is quite common in young children, and many children, especially those under 6, may still have accidents at night. However, if your 5-year-old is also experiencing daytime accidents, it could be a sign of an underlying issue that might require attention.

Possible Causes:

1. Developmental Delay: Some children take longer to develop control over their bladder. This can be especially true for deep sleepers who may not wake up when they need to go.

2. Genetics: Bedwetting often runs in families. If either parent wet the bed as children, the child might be more likely to experience it as well.

3. Overactive Bladder: An overactive bladder or smaller bladder capacity may cause frequent urination, both during the day and at night.

4. Stress or Anxiety: Changes in the child's environment, such as starting school or other family stressors, can contribute to bedwetting.

5. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): If the child has a frequent urge to urinate during the day and accidents occur, it could be related to a UTI or another medical condition.

6. Sleep Disorders: Sleep apnea or other sleep disturbances may make it difficult for the child to wake up when they need to urinate.

What You Can Do:

1. Limit Fluid Intake Before Bed: Try to reduce the amount of liquids your child drinks, especially in the evening.

2. Establish a Routine: Make sure your child goes to the bathroom right before bed, even if they don't feel the urge to urinate.

3. Encourage Regular Bathroom Use: Encourage your child to use the bathroom every 2-3 hours during the day to avoid holding urine for too long.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your child for dry nights or consistent bathroom use during the day to build their confidence and reduce any feelings of embarrassment.

5. Protect the Mattress: Consider using a waterproof mattress cover to keep the bed clean and dry.

6. Consult a Pediatrician: If bedwetting continues beyond the age of 5 or if daytime accidents persist, consult a pediatrician. They may conduct tests to rule out any medical issues such as UTIs, bladder dysfunction, or diabetes.

Bedwetting often resolves with time, but if it's affecting your child's confidence or causing significant stress, seeking guidance from a healthcare provider can help find an appropriate solution.