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How to Manage Adult Bedwetting

Bedwetting otherwise known as nocturnal enuresis occurs at night when the person is asleep. This condition of involuntary release of urine is prevalent since birth until 5-6 years old when the child is supposed to be potty trained. Adult bedwetting on the other hand is a problem that affects mostly older men aged 60 and above. It is also called urinary incontinence.

Bedwetting in adults is a rather sensitive issue to deal with. Since bedwetting is associated with children having immature urinary system, the enuretic adult does not like being called childish and inutile. Adult bedwetters have to deal with low self-esteem, loss of self-respect often ending in self-imposed isolation. This situation is stressful and painful for both the affected senior citizen and the family and often becomes a cause of friction among family members.

Adults who have overactive bladder may wet their beds while at sleep. Compounded with other complications such as post-surgery paralysis, the patient cannot feel the urge to void thus urine passes without them being aware of it, more often at night. This situation is difficult if the patient is recuperating at home and the care giver has to change beddings and clothing often.

In older men the primary cause is an enlarged prostate gland pressing on the urethra blocking the normal flow of urine. Musculoskeletal and neurological problems are also big contributors of adult bedwetting. Arthritis, multiple sclerosis, diabetes and Parkinson's disease are just a few of the underlying medical reasons of adult incontinence.

After a thorough medical checkup and all the other possible reasons have been evaluated, the urologist or professional health care provider could recommend the appropriate treatment regimen to improve the incontinent's life. If corrective surgery is not necessary or no longer possible, palliative measures may be tried.

This condition is often a cause for concern for the care givers of the incontinent who are burdened with the tedious change of clothing and beddings. The patient likewise is burdened with feelings of guilt and shame for the inconvenience of being incontinent. A GP or urologist is the best person to consult with in order to determine the extent of incontinence. Adult bedwetting need not impede the otherwise graceful retirement of our senior citizens because they have the right to age comfortably.

The use of incontinence products could make incontinence manageable. Disposable pants with highly absorbent materials are made to withstand large volume of urine and the ergonomic designs are specifically manufactured to guard against leaks. Washable pants and pads are made of natural cotton and synthetic mesh to withstand several washings. Rubber mattings protect the mattress from leaks and acrid smell of urine keeping the patient dry and comfortable.

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