Nocturnal enuresis.
Nocturnal enuresis is a very common pediatric problem which often has strong genetic roots. In the vast majority of children it resolves spontaneously, with time, therefore research and treatment of bedwetting cannot carry any risk to the child. The research on the etiology of bedwetting has been focused on sleep disturbances, nocturnal urine production and functional bladder capacity. So far it has not provided conclusive evidence of the pathophysiology of the phenomenon. It is possible that different factors may be predominant in different age groups. Although bedwetters are basically mentally healthy, several studies have shown that the problem may cause secondary emotional and social problems which can be alleviated with successful intervention. Of the treatment modalities currently available to the pediatrician, the most effective is the moisture alarm. Combined with its safety and low cost it should become the treatment of choice in most cases.
Alon
U S
US
Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Children's Mercy Hospital, University of Missouri at Kansas City 64108, USA.
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004775:Enuresis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans