Sunway city: Persistent urinary leakage in children beyond the age of five can affect their confidence, participation in school, and psychological well-being, although occasional incontinence is part of normal development. Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC) Consultant Paediatric Urologist, Paediatric and Robotic Surgeon Dr. Srihari Singaravel said the condition is highly manageable with the right guidance.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Srihari explained that urinary incontinence in children is more common than parents realize. Most children who are incontinent suffer from daytime urinary incontinence, nocturnal enuresis, or a combination of the two. Globally, about 10 to 20 per cent of children experience nighttime bedwetting, while 7 to 10 per cent have daytime symptoms. Dr. Srihari emphasized that bladder control develops gradually, with most children achieving daytime control between the ages of two and three, while nighttime dryness may take longer.
He noted that bedwetting is not simply due to deep sleep but can occur when the bladder's signal does not reach the brain in time, meaning a child may not recognize the need to urinate during sleep. Other factors include hormonal patterns affecting urine production and habits of holding urine during the day.
Dr. Srihari urged parents to seek medical help if symptoms occur frequently, are accompanied by urgency, or begin to affect the child's daily life. Signs like constipation or recurring urinary tract infections could signal more serious issues since the bladder and bowel function as part of the same system.
Dr. Srihari highlighted that addressing bowel habits alone can significantly improve urinary symptoms and noted that factors like poor toileting posture can contribute to the problem. He reassured that many children improve with simple, consistent routines rather than immediate medical treatment.
He advised reducing excessive fluid intake in the evening, maintaining good bowel habits, and ensuring adequate hydration earlier in the day. For persistent symptoms affecting confidence, medical support might be necessary, with treatment depending on whether the symptoms occur during the day, at night, or both.
Medication may be considered for nighttime bedwetting, while daytime symptoms might require treating constipation or medication to relax the overactive bladder. Dr. Srihari emphasized that treatment is not one-size-fits-all, as bladder function should be assessed before starting medication.
He detailed a common approach involving medication cycles and stressed the importance of emotional support to prevent feelings of embarrassment or anxiety. Dr. Srihari concluded by urging parents to maintain calm routines and avoid punishment, as urinary incontinence is a medical and developmental issue, not a discipline problem.