Bed-Wetting Remedies

Enuresis, more commonly known as bed-wetting, is a problem that affects as many as seven million children under the age of five. However, this does not mean that some adults never go through it. Studies show that boys are twice as likely to be challenged by this particular condition. There are various causes for bed-wetting, which include the overproduction of urine during the night, physical underdevelopment and the failure to recognize that the bladder is full. In some cases, anxious feelings can lead the person to wet the bed. There are some treatments that can remedy bed-wetting.

Psychological

• Usually, children outgrow the condition of bed-wetting. Experts recommend that parents refrain from putting undue pressure on the child. This means that they should not be praised when the bed remains dry and neither should they be punished when they wet the bed. To lessen the stress further, allow the child to personally change the sheets and have access to an extra change of clothes. Doing these things will help the child feel less ashamed and more independent.

Alarms

• The use of bed-wetting alarms can work to help condition the child to recognize when his bladder is full. These devices emit a buzzing or ringing sound when moisture is detected on the child or the bed and the alarms are usually attached directly inside the underwear. The principle behind bed-wetting alarms is that they will help condition the child to wake up when there is a need to urinate. This particular strategy often lasts for the duration of 60 days and is considered successful if the child is able to keep from bed-wetting for 21 days straight.

Exercise

• Just like any part of the body, the bladder muscles can be improved with exercise. To remedy bed-wetting, improve the quality of the bladder by allowing the person to drink plenty of fluids during the daytime. After which, bladder control can be practiced by holding off urination for prolonged periods. The amount of time can gradually be increased until the child feels more comfortable.

Medication

• In some cases, bed-wetting is a symptom of a medical condition such as an infection in the bladder or the prostate. Given this, bed-wetting can only be remedied if the source of the problem is treated. Antibiotics can be prescribed by a physician. Other options include homeopathic remedies such as the herbs sepia and pulsatilla.

Diet

• A change in diet can also lead to the alleviation of a bed-wetting problem. For example, increasing the intake of foods that are rich in magnesium and calcium, such as bananas and almonds can help regulate urination. This means that the possibility of a full bladder in the middle of the night is minimized. Eating plenty of leafy vegetables, brown rice and other high-fiber foods can also be helpful. Finally, avoid taking in liquids such as juices and coffee before going to bed to decrease the stress on the bladder.