Bed Wetting and Sleep Apnea Problems for Children

Bed Wetting and Sleep Apnea

Recent research has shown that bed wetting and sleep apnea can be an associated problem. This condition causes the throat muscles to relax and obstructs adequate airflow. Children who snore and wet the bed may be suffering from a form of sleep apnea and you may be pleasantly surprised knowing this condition can be successfully cured.

The Relationship Involving Bed Wetting and Sleep Apnea

Understanding the relationship between these two conditions, on bed wetting and sleep apnea may help clarify issues. Bed wetting, medically known as enuresis, is a common problem that usually goes away as the child ages. Around sixteen percent of five-year-old children wet the bed, but that number goes down to five percent for ten-year-olds. This condition is seen more in boys than in girls and may run in families.

Some of the major causes of bed wetting are people having a very small bladder or the growth of the nerves that control the bladder function are slower in developing. Effective treatments have included an alarm system with wires that attach to the pajamas or underwear. A noise is made when moisture is detected. The sleeping child develops an awareness of bladder control. If the child both wets the bed and snores, sleep apnea should be considered a causative factor.

Obstructive sleep apnea can cause a child to snore, as the airflow is restricted in the throat. The child will therefore have a restless night and be excessively tired during the day. Morning headaches and trouble concentrating in school may also be seen. Researchers feel that the connection between bed wetting and sleep apnea is based on the chemical imbalance that happens in the brain. When the brain isn’t able to receive a steady input of oxygen, this creates a situation where the signals from the bladder are not properly received.

These conditions result is bed wetting. The primary cause of this type of sleep apnea is large adenoids. When the adenoids are removed, the snoring stops, the breathing improves and the bed wetting situation is resolved. It should be noted that generally only a small percentage of children both snore and wet their beds.

In conclusion if there is a connection between the two situations, parents should not immediately consider surgery as the only option until a definite cause and effect relationship has been established. Bed wetting often stops when a child is older, but if there are any symptoms of sleep apnea it is recommended that you discuss them with your doctor.

There is usually an answer to bed wetting and sleep apnea associated problems and your doctor is the specialist who can help you make treatment decisions.