Behavior modification in both adults and children can reduce enuresis.
Enuresis refers to the involuntary discharge of urine. Commonly termed "incontinence" in adults and "bedwetting" in children, the condition can be caused by a variety of factors including genetic disposition, sleep apnea, stressful events and by urinary tract infections. In addition, chronic constipation may irritate the bladder and cause enuresis. Therefore, a physician should conduct a thorough examination to rule out infection and constipation before individuals begin behavior modification exercises.
Proper Hydration
Fluid intake should be limited in the evenings.
According to the Continence Foundation, individuals should consume at least one and a half to two liters of fluid each day. The majority of the fluid consumption should be during the day and limited in the evenings. Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages may irritate the bladder and are not advised.
Voiding Schedule
Urination before bed may reduce enuresis.
Voiding after waking up in the morning, every two hours and before going to bed is advised. In addition, scheduling a time to wake up during the night to urinate may be needed. Experts encourage urination before leaving home, school or work. Individuals should not hold their urine in an attempt to expand bladder capacity as studies have indicated that urinary infections may result in this practice.
Kegel Exercises
Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles involved in urination and bowel movements. As with any muscles, if they are not regularly engaged, they may weaken. Therefore, by routinely contracting the muscles in this area, enuresis may be resolved.
Enuresis Alarms
Enuresis alarms are attached to pajamas.
If voiding schedules and limited hydration have not resolved enuresis, then an enuresis alarm may be the next step in behavior modification. Upon sensing the first few drops of moisture, the alarm may either sound or vibrate to wake the individual before the bladder is fully voided, thus conditioning the user to wake upon the feeling of a full bladder.
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