Stopping bed wetting (nocturnal enuresis) at age 17 often involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments and potentially medical interventions. Managing fluid intake and bladder irritants before bed is a key initial step.
Lifestyle Adjustments
These simple changes can often make a significant difference:
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Limit Evening Fluids: Reduce your intake of fluids, especially in the 2-3 hours before going to bed.
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Avoid Bladder Irritants: Cut back on foods and drinks known to irritate the bladder, such as:
- Caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, sodas)
- Alcohol
- Citrus fruits and juices
- Spicy foods
- Artificial sweeteners
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Empty Your Bladder Regularly: Make sure to urinate regularly throughout the day and, importantly, right before going to bed. Double voiding (urinating, waiting a few minutes, and then urinating again) can also help ensure your bladder is empty.
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Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule: A regular sleep schedule can help regulate your body's natural rhythms, potentially reducing bed wetting.
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Elevate Legs: Elevating legs before bed can reduce the amount of fluid returning to the body and ultimately the kidneys during sleep.
Medical Evaluation and Treatment
If lifestyle adjustments are not sufficient, consider consulting a doctor. They can help determine if there's an underlying medical cause and recommend appropriate treatment options:
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Rule Out Underlying Conditions: The doctor may want to rule out conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs), diabetes, or other medical issues that could contribute to bed wetting.
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Medications:
- Desmopressin (DDAVP): This medication helps reduce urine production overnight. It's a synthetic form of vasopressin, a natural hormone that regulates fluid balance.
- Other Medications: In rare cases, other medications might be prescribed depending on the underlying cause.
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Bed-Wetting Alarm: A bed-wetting alarm is a device that detects moisture and triggers an alarm, waking you up when you start to urinate. Over time, this can train your body to wake up when your bladder is full.
Psychological Considerations
Bed wetting can be a source of stress and embarrassment, especially at age 17. It's important to address any emotional or psychological factors that might be contributing to the problem:
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Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to manage stress.
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Counseling/Therapy: Talking to a therapist or counselor can help you cope with any anxiety or emotional distress related to bed wetting.
By combining lifestyle changes with appropriate medical evaluation and support, you can effectively address and overcome bed wetting at age 17.
