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Bed -wetting and
how to handle it
 It's important
to remember that your child is probably not wetting the bed on
purpose, and he or she is probably very embarrassed and ashamed
about it. Before you attempt to treat the problem, a thorough
physical exam by your health care provider is essential for
ruling out medical problems. Be sure you are ready to
participate in the treatment, and be patient with your child.
Here are some basic tips on handling bed-wetting:
Remember that primary enuresis is
usually self-limited and will end on its own.
Know that many children under age
eight can't be properly managed.
Be sure your pediatrician is
informed.
Avoid punishment, embarrassment,
or calling the child names.
Do not be too aggressive in your
approach.
Avoid causing more stress on your
family or child.
Be patient if you're trying
bladder stretching. Your child may have more accidents for a
while.
Do not diaper the child. Restrict
fluids after dinner if your child is willing.
Have your child urinate before
going to bed. Reward good behaviour.
Keep a chart. If your child is on
medications, watch for side effects.
If you're using an alarm-type
system, be sure you use it properly to ensure that your child
faces no danger.
Alarms have the highest cure rate
- about 75 percent, but may have a 20 to 40 percent relapse
rate. Wait three months or so (as recommended) before starting
again.
Counselling may be needed if there
are stressors in the family (new sibling, etc.).
Treat the underlying cause:
urinary tract infection or diabetes. Use Imipramine.
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Bladder
stretching: This enables
the bladder to hold more urine. This process requires that you
measure the amount of urine a few times a day and record the
amount. Once daily, have the child hold his or her urine for as
long as possible, and then measure the amount of urine passed.
Also, do Kegel exercises (the stopping and starting of urine
passage) to strengthen the muscles.