This condition often occurs when a child "holds it in" routinely and does not empty their bladder regularly.
If allowed to continue the child may encounter urinary tract infections, painful urination, and incontinence.
Marshfield Clinic has pediatric specialists trained specifically for treatment of issues associated with voiding dysfunction.
Your physician will recommend a specific treatment plan based on the severity of the child's condition.
Changes in a child's behavior pattern are often very effective in treatment of this condition. Treatments may include:
- Timed voiding - this is a planned number of trips to the bathroom. The child will go upon getting out of bed, every two or three hours throughout the day, then just prior to going to bed in order to create regular routine.
- Complete emptying - the child will be encouraged to completely relax their muscles while urinating to ensure the bladder is totally emptied.
- Embracing urges - persuade the child to urinate as soon as they feel the urge appears.
- Relieving constipation - which can push the bladder causing incontinence.
Anticholinergic drugs, bladder relaxant medications, are frequently used to help with control.