Adult bed-wetting: A concern?

Answer Section

Bed-wetting that starts in adulthood is not typical and may be a sign of a health condition. It's important to talk to a healthcare professional to find out the cause. Wetting the bed at night when asleep is called nocturnal enuresis. Your partner is not alone. Millions of people have this condition.

Nocturnal enuresis has many possible causes. Genetics and family history often play a role. But anxiety and stress, drinking too much fluid, or a bladder condition may be the cause. Or it could be another health condition.

Causes of adult bed-wetting may include:

• Bladder conditions, including overactive muscles and nerves or a bladder that can hold only small amounts of urine.
• Too much urine being made by your body at night.
• Constipation.
• Sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea.
• Side effects from medicine.
• Neurological conditions.
• Infection or blockage in the urinary tract.
• Metabolic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes.
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Buildup of fluid in the legs called peripheral edema.

Finding the cause for nocturnal enuresis is the first step toward finding the right treatment. To help find the cause of adult bed-wetting, your healthcare professional may ask your partner questions about their medical history. Your partner also may have tests and procedures such as:

• A physical exam.
• A urine test called urinalysis.
• Urological tests to check the organs of the urinary system.
• A neurological exam to check for nerve issues.

Treatment of adult bed-wetting depends on the cause.