Ask the Doctor

Still bedwetting at 11

My 11 year old daughter is still bedwetting. I have been trying to do all in my power to stop the bad habit but it has not changed. Kindly let me know what to do about this very embarrassing situation.
Chioma (by SMS)

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Wetting the bed can be an embarrassing issue among kids, but it’s actually very common. Bedwetting tends to run in families and is more common among boys than girls; experts estimate the ratio as roughly 2 boys to 1 girl.

Possible causes of bedwetting include; urinary tract infections, diabetes, or even stress. In some cases, there isn’t a physical reason for bedwetting. It’s just a delay in the development of night time bladder control.

Make sure your child goes to the bathroom before her bedtime, but also try to let her go to the bathroom again right before you go to bed.

Some doctors also suggest limiting your child›s intake of fluids a few hours before bedtime. In addition, constipation is a common cause for bladder problems. Apple juice, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are all good options to help ease constipation.

Medication is also an option, but it has potential side effects. The second you stop the medication, the bedwetting might start again.

A moisture alarm wakes your child the second he wets the bed. The interruption in sleep can condition the brain to control the bladder better and help prevent accidents. This method is about 75 percent effective, and tends to work when children themselves are ready to be dry.

Make sure the bed has a waterproof mattress cover or pad and pillow cases. Learn to relax and be patient: This phase won›t last forever. In almost all cases, children outgrow bedwetting.

David Olagunju

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