What is the link between ADHD and bedwetting?

There are approximately 6 million children, ages 3 to 17 years old, living with ADHD in the United States. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Like ADHD, enuresis is also an extremely common condition affecting more than 5 million children over the age of six. Many children with ADHD may experience nighttime bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis. Research suggests that as many as 40% of children with ADHD may also have enuresis.

At Vamio Health, our team of board-certified pediatric urologists and pediatricians treat enuresis through our convenient and secure telehealth platform.

What is the connection between ADHD and bedwetting?

One significant reason experts point too has to do with the development of the central nervous system in those with ADHD. Children with ADHD do not detect bladder signals that it is full and time to urinate.

Other characteristics of ADHD that may contribute to enuresis include:

1. Stress and anxiety. Children with ADHD can be prone to increased feelings of stress and anxiety more easily than others. Anxiety puts extra strain on the body, particularly the bladder, which can lead to accidents.

2. Hyperactivity. Moving at a fast-paced and constant motion is common for children with ADHD, and because of this they may fail to notice their body’s signs that it’s time to go.  

3. Sleep issues. Those with ADHD often experience deep, heavy sleep, and  / or very restless sleep. In either case, it may prove difficult for a child to wake at night or recognize that they need to use the bathroom.

How can you stop bedwetting for kids with ADHD?

There are many successful options for bedwetting treatment now available. Recent research published in Neurourology and Urodynamics shows that the following strategies may be effective ways to help with bedwetting in children who are neurodivergent or have neurological differences:

● Employing structured visual timetables, or other reminders, to help prompt them about bathroom time
● Using positive reinforcement on a regular and continuous basis for successfully using the bathroom during the night, as repetition is a key motivator for those with ADHD  
● Choosing pajama bottoms that can be easily removed so there is no added stress or apprehension when they feel the urge to go

If you have concerns about your child’s bedwetting, our board certified pediatric urologists can help you and your family find the right solution for a better, and drier, night’s sleep.

Contact us Today for Bedwetting Solutions

Vamio Health telehealth bedwetting solutions provide affordable access to highly specialized care in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Our board certified pediatric experts offer real-time bedwetting support and individualized treatment strategies to help you and your child get back to living life comfortably. 

To schedule a bedwetting consultation visit www.vamiohealth.com. 

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