My husband has started to wet the bed at night. What causes adult bed-wetting? Should we be concerned about this?

Answer From Patricio C. Gargollo, M.D.

Bed-wetting that starts in adulthood (secondary enuresis) is uncommon and requires medical evaluation.

Causes of adult bed-wetting may include:

  • A blockage (obstruction) in part of the urinary tract, such as from a bladder stone or kidney stone
  • Bladder problems, such as small capacity or overactive nerves
  • Diabetes
  • Enlarged prostate
  • Medication side effect
  • Neurological disorders
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Urinary tract infection

Tests and procedures used to determine the cause of adult bed-wetting include:

  • Physical exam
  • Urine tests
  • Urologic tests
  • Neurological evaluation

Treatment of adult bed-wetting is directed at the underlying cause, when possible.

With

Patricio C. Gargollo, M.D.

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Jan. 31, 2023 See more Expert Answers

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