Bed wetting is a common problem among children. Most of the time, kid may outgrow this habit over time. But there are also times when the habit seem to linger on to the embarrassment of some kids. There are many ways in which bed wetting can be treated. Here are just some of them.
Things to Consider
Before trying out a certain treatment for bed wetting, doctors first try to consider what the underlying cause of the condition may be. Since bed wetting, or enuresis in medical terms, may be caused by different factors, doctors would first want to find out what may be causing it in order to provide the most effective treatment available for bed wetting. Bear in mind that this condition is not a disease and therefore requires no cure. What treatment options there are either involves trying to control the factors which might contribute to bed wetting or by trying to find a means to improve better urination control.
Punishment Not Effective
Since most cases of bed wetting happens to kids, parents may sometimes consider punishment as a possible way to help children stop the habit. Although it may sound a good enough method for some parents, punishment for bed wetting kids is generally not effective. It may even interfere with other treatments in the process. Not only that, punishment for bed wetting may have a considerable effect on kids that can sometimes lead them to develop certain insecurities about themselves and may grow up having low self-esteem.
Bed Wetting Alarm
One of the more common treatments that doctors recommend for bed wetting kids is using wearable bed wetting alarm. This special device is being worn that sends out a loud alarm when it senses moisture. Bed wetting alarms are considered quite effective in that it helps kids become conditioned to waking up every time they are about to urinate during sleep. Studies show that those who wear bed wetting alarms are 13 times more likely to stay dry at night. This treatment however also has a relapse rate of around 29 to 69 percent. Users usually require repeated treatments in order to develop better conditioning.
Prescription Medication
There are also other types of medication that may also prove effective in treating bed wetting. Certain tricyclic-antidepressants have been used in some people to treat bedwetting. But such medications may also increase the risk of possible side effects when used. Such medications include Amitriptyline, Imipramine, and Nortriptyline where studies show that users are 4.2 times more likely to stay dry at night as compared to those who took a placebo. But relapses rates of around 50 percent are also experienced once users stop taking the medication.
Absorbent Underwear
Absorbent underwear is available for bed wetters of all ages. There are absorbent diapers available for kids as well as for adults. Although they may not actually help prevent bed wetting, they do however help keep people more comfortable as well as more convenient in terms of cleaning the mess after bed wetting.
