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November 17, 2004
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Adult bed-wetting: A concern?
Question My husband, age 24 and in good health, has started to wet the bed at night. What would cause this? Should we be concerned?

No name  /  No state given
Answer

Bed-wetting (enuresis) is common in young children and some older adults. Bed-wetting that starts in adulthood (secondary enuresis) is rare and requires medical evaluation. It's often a sign of an underlying condition, such as:

  • Urinary tract stones
  • Urinary tract infections

Rarely, secondary enuresis is due to:

  • Bladder cancer
  • A neurologic disorder that involves the spinal cord such as a tumor or multiple sclerosis

A doctor may be able to identify the cause based on:

  • Medical history
  • Physical examination
  • Urine tests
  • Urologic examinations and tests
  • Neurologic evaluation

Treatment depends on the underlying cause but is usually effective.


Related Information



By Mayo Clinic staff
November 14, 2003


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