Wetting the bed can affect a child\u2019s self-esteem and have a big impact on family life but it can be treated.<\/p>\n
Bedwetting has three main causes-<\/p>\n
\tThe child\u2019s bladder doesn\u2019t stretch enough to hold all the wee they make at night. Constipation could make this worse as if the bowel is full of poo it will press against the bladder.
\n \tThey produce too much wee at night.
\n \tThey don\u2019t wake up when their bladder sends a signal to the brain that it\u2019s full.<\/p>\n
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There are other causes for bedwetting such as, urinary infections, anxiety and stress and other illnesses such as diabetes (a doctor should be seen to rule any of these other causes out).<\/p>\n
How to manage bedwetting<\/p>\n
To stop or manage bedwetting a child should be seen by a health professional and referred to the enuresis clinic by the GP or School Nurse. The enuresis clinic will assess your child\u2019s bladder and bowels and work out why they are wet at night and choose the best treatment.<\/p>\n
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Tips to help<\/p>\n
\tEnsure your child drinks enough fluids a minimum of 6-8 drinks a day and water is best, don\u2019t limit the amount of drinks thinking it will make them dry it won\u2019t work!
\n \tAvoid fizzy, dark coloured drinks such as berry\u2019s and hot chocolate and caffeine drinks such as tea and coffee.
\n \tMake sure your child is not constipated; they should pass soft stools at least 4 times a week.
\n \tEncourage your child to have regular toilet breaks and make sure they empty their bladder fully before they go to sleep.
\n \tUse plenty of encouragement and get them to think positively and say \u201cI can be dry\u201d as they get in to bed.<\/p>\n
For further help and advice please visit www.eric.org.uk<\/p>\n
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