Advice & Support
for
Living with Incontinence

Nocturnal Enuresis (Night-time Incontinence)

Understanding overnight leakage and what you can do about it will help you get a good night’s rest.
Published by Jane Granger
Nocturnal Enuresis (Night-time Incontinence)

What is night-time incontinence?
Medically called Nocturnal Enuresis, it’s the involuntary release of urine while asleep – during the night or day. The definition is confined to those over the age of 18, but it’s more likely to start later in life (referred to as ‘onset Nocturnal Enuresis’) - typically over the age of 60.

It’s different to Nocturia, which is waking frequently to urinate.

 

Why does it happen?
Firstly, it is NOT within the control of the individual and nor is it the result of consuming too much fluid or not going to the toilet before bed. Although these things can make a difference, the trigger is a message sent suddenly by the brain to the bladder, while you’re asleep, to release urine.

 

What are the causes?
If you’re regularly experiencing leakage while asleep, see your doctor as Nocturnal Enuresis can be linked to other medical conditions. Some of these include:

  • An infection such as a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection)
  • Diabetes
  • Neurological disorders like stress, dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease or damage from a stroke
  • Bladder or prostate cancer
  • Prostate enlargement
  • Multiple Sclerosis

Sometimes, no cause is found. Extensive research into Nocturnal Enuresis as a chronic condition on its own has yet to be undertaken.

 

Tips to improve and manage Nocturnal Enuresis

  • See your doctor. If the issue is an infection, antibiotics will resolve it and the incontinence. Other causes should also be investigated. Medication, such as a diuretic which helps the body release excess fluid, may be prescribed for afternoon use.
  • Adopt Good Bladder Habits and avoid Food and Drinks that can irritate the bladder
  • Ask your doctor for a referral to a continence nurse or continence physiotherapist who can prescribe bladder retraining techniques as well as manageable routines such a pelvic floor exercises to improve bladder control
  • In the meantime, chose an absorbent product from the TENA Men’s range. TENA Men’s shield and guards are all soft, comfortable and disposable. Take advantage of TENA’s Free Samples to find which level of absorbency best suits your needs

And again, if you are potentially suffering from Nocturnal Enuresis (night-time incontinence), you must see your doctor.


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Asaleo Care makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness or accuracy of the information. This information should be used only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional, medical or other health professional advice.