What is enuresis (Urinary Incontinence)?

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Last updated: March 26, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Enuresis, also known as urinary incontinence, is a condition that requires a comprehensive evaluation and treatment approach, focusing on identifying underlying medical conditions, comorbidities, and starting adequate first-line treatment. The evaluation should begin with a good case history, focusing on voiding habits, symptoms such as urgency, holding maneuvers, and current or previous daytime incontinence 1. A frequency-volume chart can provide more reliable data on voiding habits than family recollection. It is essential to distinguish between monosymptomatic enuresis and non-monosymptomatic enuresis, as the latter may require more specialized care.

Key aspects of enuresis evaluation and treatment include:

  • Identifying underlying medical conditions, such as constipation, encopresis, or palpable stool impaction, which can contribute to enuresis 1
  • Assessing for comorbid conditions, such as somatic and psychological disorders, which are more common in children who were previously dry than in those with primary monosymptomatic enuresis 1
  • Starting first-line treatment, which may include supportive approaches, such as education, demystification, and ensuring that parents do not punish the child for enuretic episodes 1
  • Considering behavioral treatments, such as conditioning with a modern, portable, battery-operated alarm, which can be highly effective as the first line of treatment with cooperative, motivated families 1
  • Evaluating the need for medication, such as imipramine or DDAVP, which have proven efficacy in the treatment of enuresis, although with varying success rates and potential side effects 1

A comprehensive treatment plan should prioritize the child's overall well-being, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of enuresis, and involving the family in the treatment process. By taking a thorough and multidisciplinary approach, healthcare providers can help children with enuresis achieve improved outcomes, reduced morbidity, and enhanced quality of life.

From the Research

Definition of Enuresis (Urinary Incontinence)

There are no research papers provided to directly answer the question about enuresis (urinary incontinence). The studies available are related to nausea and vomiting, and do not provide information on urinary incontinence.

Related Studies

  • The studies provided are focused on the treatment of nausea and vomiting in various settings, including emergency departments and pregnancy 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • These studies do not mention enuresis or urinary incontinence, and therefore do not provide any relevant information on this topic.

Key Points

  • Enuresis, also known as urinary incontinence, is not addressed in the provided studies.
  • The available studies are related to gastrointestinal disorders, nausea, and vomiting, and do not provide any information on urinary incontinence.
  • Further research would be needed to provide information on enuresis and its treatment.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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