Bedwetting is also know as nocturnal enuresis. It is very common, but people are reluctant to discuss the problem.

In many cases no cause can be found. Some people may have overactive bladder and this group will also have problems with urgency to urinate during the day. Sometimes an infection in the urine other bladder problem may be the cause. Stress or anxiety may also start bedwetting.

Generally people urinate at regular intervals during the day, but sleep through the night or perhaps get up once.

Seeking advice from a health professional is the first step in dealing with the problem. A full investigation can rule out any medical conditions or infections.

Enuresis alarms which wake you when you start to wet can be helpful. There are also various medications available to treat the problem. In most cases, advice and support can provide the means to deal with or treat the problem.
Nocturia is another night-time problem. This is when you have to go to the bathroom several times during the night.

Nocturia can be caused by excessive fluid intake, so cutting down on liquids in the last two hours can be helpful. Alchohol and caffeine stimulate the bladder so these are best avoided late at night.

Older people will tend to need to urinate more during the night, as age reduces bladder capacity. Twice a night in your 70s and three times a night in your eighties would be normal.

In older men, an enlarged prostate may be the cause of the problem. Reduced urine flow, delay in starting, dribbling or incomplete emptying are other signs of enlarged prostate.

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