Nocturnal Enuresis

Childhood bedwetting acupuncture | Childhood bedwetting TCM

Bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis, refers to the involuntary urination during sleep.

As children grow older, they should be able to control their urination, but if a child aged 5-6 years still has two or more episodes of bedwetting per month, it is considered as nocturnal enuresis.

Types of childhood nocturnal enuresis

Primary enuresis: The child has never been able to control nighttime urination during their development.

Secondary enuresis: The child had at least 6 consecutive months of dry nights, but then suddenly started bedwetting again.

Causes of primary nocturnal enuresis

Genetic factors: If both parents had a history of bedwetting, the child has a 75% chance of also having this problem. If one parent had it, the chance is 40-50%.
Bladder dysfunction: Such as small bladder capacity or overactive bladder, leading to frequent urination, nocturia and bedwetting.
Hormonal imbalance: Insufficient secretion of antidiuretic hormone at night, causing excessive urine production.
Developmental delays: These children may have a later maturation of urination control function.
Other factors: Deep sleep, inability to sense a full bladder, and not waking up to urinate.

Causes of secondary nocturnal enuresis

Constipation: rectal impaction compressing the bladder
Sleep apnea
Urinary tract infection
Diabetes
Kidney dysfunction
Emotional or psychological factors

Effects of nocturnal enuresis

Affected child may feel ashamed, have a low self-esteem or lack self-confidence, and hence school performance, social life and behaviour may be affected
Existing diseases that cause secondary enuresis can affect the health of the child if not managed promptly

Three-step TCM treatment of nocturnal enuresis

Herbal medicine: Herbs are prescribed based on the child’s constitution and symptoms, to tonify the spleen and kidneys, and regulate urination.

Acupuncture: Acupuncture can help regulate organ functions and strengthen bladder control.

MANA Painless “laser acupuncture”

Combines traditional acupuncture with modern laser technology, providing a needle-free, painless treatment suitable for children.

Low-intensity laser stimulation of acupuncture points like Tian Shu, Spleen Shu, and Kidney Shu can help tonify qi and boost the immune system, synergizing with herbal medicine.

Prevention and Tips for Parents

Encourage adequate water intake during the day, but limit fluid intake in the evening.
Avoid late-night consumption of diuretic foods/drinks like coffee, tea, or other caffeine-containing beverages.
Establish the habit of fully emptying the bladder before bedtime.

MANA Core Values

Integration of Eastern and Western Medicine, Multidimensional Therapy
Reshaping Structural Integrity to Achieve Inner and Outer Balance
Guiding Body Perception to Think & Foster a Healthy Lifestyle
Conducted by Registered TCM Practitioners and Physiotherapists for Examination and Treatment

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