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= Paid-up subscribersPractitioner 2011; 255 (1741):23-26
Paediatrics: Treating nocturnal enuresis in children in primary care
21 Jun 2011
Nocturnal enuresis is a common condition that can cause much distress to sufferers and their families. It is defined as involuntary wetting while asleep at least twice a week in children over the age of five. Less frequent wetting can be described simply as bedwetting. Primary nocturnal enuresis describes those children who have always been wet. Secondary nocturnal enuresis is defined as a relapse after a child has been completely dry for at least six months. Bedwetting is a very common, and often distressing, condition which can be treated very effectively. Contrary to previous belief, many children do not grow out of it, particularly children with frequent wetting or coexisting bladder dysfunction. Treatment should be instituted in all children over the age of seven years, where desired by the child or parents. Treatment should be considered in children aged five to seven years, especially when wetting is frequent or causing severe family stresses. The NICE quick reference guide for nocturnal enuresis gives more detailed information on treating the condition.
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