The link between sleep apnea - article about The link between sleep apnea

The Link Between Sleep Apnea and Bed Wetting

Overview of Bed Wetting and Sleep Apnea

To thoroughly understand the relationship between these two conditions, an overview of bed wetting and sleep apnea may clarify things. 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. The major causes of bed wetting are a very small bladder or the slower development of the nerves that control bladder function. Effective treatments have included an alarm system with wires that attach to the pajamas or underwear. A noise is made when moisture is detected, which wakes up the sleeping child and thereby develops an awareness of bladder control. However, if the child both wets the bed and snores, sleep apnea should be considered a causative factor.

What's the Connection?

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. The result is bed wetting. But there is some good news. 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. While there is a connection between the two situations, parents should not immediately opt for surgery until a definite cause and effect relationship has been established. Although bed wetting often stops when a child is older, if there are any symptoms of sleep apnea present, discuss them with your doctor.

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