OVERVIEW
Enuresis refers to involuntary urination (typically by children during the night time). Often times the definition of enuresis is reserved for urinary incontinence in children that are ages 5 or older.
CLINCIAL WORKUP
Urinalysis
HOW DO WE TREAT IT?
Treatment strategies should follow the general outline below (going from least to most aggressive):
Behavior modifications are generally one of the first things that are tried to address this issue:
- Avoid sugary/caffeinated drinks
- Void regularly during the day and right before bedtime
- Drink plenty of fluids in morning/early afternoon while minimizing fluid intake before bedtime.
- Reward children who have not urinated in sleep with a “gold star” (or something to this effect)
Enuresis alarm: this is typically one of the first interventions tried when the above behavior modifications do not resolve the issue.
Pharmacotherapy: when the alarm does not resolve the issue typically pharmacotherapy can be tried.
- First line therapy involves using desmopressin
- Second line therapy will utilize tricyclic antidepressants
Page Updated: 11.21.2016