Visit the doctor for bedwetting

Summer is coming to an end, and you've probably received a health form for your child's annual checkup that you'll need to complete before school starts in the fall. As a full-time pediatrician, I know it can be a busy clinic visit, with height and weight measurements, blood pressure, hearing and vision tests, and, if applicable, vaccinations. You should be sure to discuss your child's eating habits, exercise routine, safety precautions, and sleep with the pediatrician. You may also have other concerns and want your pediatrician's professional opinion. Many parents ask about their children's bedwetting, and I assure you, it's completely normal. According to the National Kidney Foundation, 5 to 10 million children over the age of 5 still wet the bed occasionally. If your child's healthcare provider doesn't ask about this or any other concerns you have about your child's emotional or physical health, don't hesitate to ask. Not only can your doctor help you, but they can teach your child that bedwetting is nothing to be ashamed of. The doctor will first conduct a thorough history and physical exam. You'll ask questions, and so will your doctor, to fully establish the facts surrounding your child's bedwetting. After this discussion, the doctor may order simple tests to rule out any medical reasons that could be causing the bedwetting, such as a bladder infection or diabetes. Before you leave, your doctor will offer practical tips for better managing nighttime incidents. I encourage parents to come to their annual checkups with a list of questions. If your child wets the bed, here are some questions you might want to ask: Why does my child wet the bed even though he is potty trained during the day? What causes bedwetting and how long does it last? As a doctor, what treatments do you recommend? What advice would you give my child to help him until he no longer wets the bed? Your pediatrician can help you with questions you have about bedwetting and will ask you questions about your child's bedwetting, including: Has your child always wet the bed or did it start suddenly? Is your child drinking more than usual? Has your child gained or lost weight recently? Does your child complain of pain when urinating? Are they urinating more frequently? Have there been any major changes at home, such as a divorce, a recent move, problems at school, or the death of a parent? After explaining bedwetting to you, the doctor will probably want to talk about what a parent can do to help their child: Be compassionate and caring with your child. Make sure they know you are not angry with them and do not blame them for wetting the bed. Offer your support by telling him about other family members who have wet the bed. Make sure your child limits fluid intake after dinner and empties their bladder just before bed. Help her avoid anxiety by offering to buy her disposable underwear. She'll feel better about herself and wake up in dry sheets. This will give her a sense of greater control over the situation. Give him a big hug, wish him goodnight, and tell him how much you love him.