Bed-wetting

Definition

Bed-wetting describes the reflex wetting (urinating) of the bed in the middle of night during childhood.

Cause

Although the cause or causes of bed-wetting are not exactly known, chronic bed-wetting is usually a sign of a deeper underlying problem. This may include hypoglycemia, diabetes, and urinary tract infections. Other potential causes include, emotional stress, small bladder, excessive consumption of liquids, deep sleep, heredity and behavioral problems.

Bed-wetting can also be attributed to food allergies. When allergies are present, the bladder can reduce in size, causing urinary incontinence. If you or your child is a chronic bed-wetter, food allergies must be screened for and treated.

Natural Remedies

Aromatherapy: Before going to bed, rub of the abdomen with olive oil and cypress essence.

Diet plan: Eat frequent small meals, up to five or six, throughout the day. Consume slow-release complex carbohydrates, such as potatoes, yams, whole grains, breads, and beans. Do not consume liquids around bedtime and avoid sugary drinks such as soda or juice entirely. Eat a tiny bit of protein from chicken, seafood, soy, goat cheese, or nut butter, before bed.

Herbs: If bed-wetting occurs because of insufficient control of the bladder, consume an infusion of equal parts horsetail, St. Johns wort, cornsilk, and lemon balm. Drink one cup three times each day, with the last dose more than an hour before bedtime.

Homeopathy: Be-Dry is the most popular homeopathic remedy for bed-wetting.

Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy is the process of applying water, ice, steam and alternating cold and hot temperatures to restore health. Treatments include total body immersion, steam baths, saunas, sitz baths, colonic irrigation, and the application of warm and cold compresses. Hydrotherapy is effective for treating an array of conditions and can easily be used in the home as part of a personal-treatment program. Many professionals including naturopathic physicians, physical therapists, and day spas use Hydrotherapy as part of their treatment routines. We suggest trying several at home hydrotherapy remedies. Please seek the advice of an alternative healthcare practitioner prior to undergoing these treatments to ensure they are right for you.

*Purified water is essential in any Hydrotherapy remedy. Remedies involving purifying bath water offer clear instructions.

Alternative Professional Care

If your symptoms persist despite following the steps listed above, seek the help of a qualified medical expert. The following professional therapies have all demonstrated an ability to be useful for treating and relieving the symptoms of bed-wetting: Acupuncture, Psychophysiological Feedback Training, Chiropractic care, Hypnosis, and Magnetic Field Therapy. (See Glossary for descriptions of these alternative therapies.)