Your 18 year old son still wets the bed and himself sometimes what do you do?
Addressing an issue like bedwetting and incontinence in an 18-year-old son requires a sensitive and comprehensive approach. Here's what you can consider doing:
1. Open Communication:
- Start by having an honest and non-judgmental conversation with your son about the problem. Let him know that you're there to help him and that you understand it can be stressful for both of you.
2. Consult a Medical Professional:
- Schedule an appointment with a doctor or urologist to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the incontinence.
3. Bladder Training:
- Encourage your son to follow a bladder training routine. This may involve setting regular bathroom schedules and gradually increasing the time between bathroom trips.
4. Limit Fluid Intake before Bed:
- Ask him to avoid consuming excessive fluids, especially caffeine-containing beverages, close to bedtime.
5. Proper Hydration during the Day:
- Ensure that your son drinks plenty of fluids throughout the day to avoid dehydration, but reduce fluid intake a few hours before bedtime.
6. Bedwetting Alarms:
- Explore using bedwetting alarms that vibrate or make a sound when moisture is detected. These can help him develop the habit of waking up when he needs to use the bathroom.
7. Consider Absorbent Products:
- Provide him with absorbent bed pads or other products designed to manage incontinence. This can help reduce the embarrassment associated with wet bedding.
8. Emotional Support:
- Understand that bedwetting and incontinence can affect his self-esteem. Be patient, supportive, and avoid negative reactions or criticism.
9. Establish a Bedtime Routine:
- Help him establish a relaxing bedtime routine that includes going to bed and waking up at consistent times.
10. Medication (if prescribed):
- If the doctor recommends medication, ensure your son takes it as prescribed and monitor for any side effects.
11. Monitor Progress:
- Keep a record of your son's progress, including the frequency of bedwetting incidents and any improvements over time.
12. Professional Counseling (if needed):
- In some cases, emotional stress or psychological factors can contribute to incontinence. Consider seeking professional counseling if he struggles with anxiety or low self-esteem related to this issue.
13. Encourage Independence:
- Gradually encourage him to take responsibility for managing his incontinence, such as changing the bedwetting alarms and washing the bedsheets.
Remember that every individual's situation is unique, so tailor your approach based on what works best for your son. It's important to remain supportive and understanding throughout the process, and to celebrate his progress, no matter how small it may seem.