How to prepare for a video visit about Bedwetting (Enuresis) - Management

Audience: adult

Bedwetting, also called enuresis, is when an adult unintentionally urinates during sleep. It can be a source of stress and affect quality of life. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand possible causes and management options. During the visit, you will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle habits. Your provider may suggest tests or treatments to help manage bedwetting. Preparing for the visit by gathering information about your symptoms and health can make the conversation more effective. Telemedicine allows you to get advice from home, but some situations may require in-person care. This guide helps you prepare for a video visit about bedwetting and understand what telemedicine can and cannot do.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Blood in urine (hematuria) — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden severe abdominal or back pain — get urgent medical attention.
• Inability to urinate or painful urination with fever — contact emergency services.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of bedwetting symptoms.
• Review of medical history and medications.
• Guidance on lifestyle changes and behavioral management.
• Discussion of test results that do not require physical exam.
• Follow-up consultations for ongoing management.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring palpation or imaging.
• Emergency situations such as severe pain or blood in urine.
• Procedures or treatments needing in-person visits.
• Diagnostic tests that require lab or imaging facilities.

What is Adult Bedwetting (Enuresis)?

Adult bedwetting is the unintentional passing of urine during sleep in people older than 18. It is different from daytime urinary problems and may happen occasionally or regularly. Causes can include medical conditions, stress, or lifestyle factors. Understanding your symptoms helps your provider suggest the best management.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, gather information to share with your healthcare provider:

What to Expect During the Video Visit

Your provider will ask questions about your symptoms, health history, and lifestyle. They may:

You can ask questions and share any concerns you have.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some symptoms require urgent in-person evaluation. Seek emergency care if you experience:

Your provider may also recommend in-person visits for physical exams or tests that cannot be done remotely.

Managing Bedwetting at Home

Common strategies to manage bedwetting include:

Your provider can guide you on which methods may help.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note frequency and pattern of bedwetting episodes.
• List any other urinary symptoms you experience.
• Record fluid intake habits, especially before bedtime.
• Prepare a list of current medications and medical conditions.
• Find a quiet, private space with good internet for the video visit.
• Have a pen and paper ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any lifestyle or behavioral advice given by your provider.
• Schedule any recommended tests or in-person visits.
• Keep a symptom diary to track changes and progress.
• Take prescribed medications as directed, if any.
• Contact your provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.

FAQs

What causes bedwetting in adults?

Adult bedwetting can be caused by various factors including urinary tract infections, bladder problems, diabetes, stress, or certain medications. Sometimes, no clear cause is found. Your healthcare provider will help explore possible reasons during your visit.

Can bedwetting be cured?

Many causes of adult bedwetting can be managed or improved with treatment. Lifestyle changes, medications, or therapies may reduce or stop episodes. Success depends on the underlying cause and individual response to treatment.

Is it safe to discuss bedwetting over a video visit?

Yes, video visits are a safe and private way to discuss bedwetting with your healthcare provider. They allow you to get advice from home. However, some situations may require in-person care for tests or emergencies.

What should I do if bedwetting suddenly worsens?

If bedwetting worsens suddenly or you develop new symptoms like blood in urine, severe pain, or fever, seek emergency medical care promptly. These signs may indicate a serious problem.

Are there medications for adult bedwetting?

There are medications that may help manage bedwetting depending on the cause. Your provider will discuss if medication is appropriate for you and explain potential benefits and side effects.

Sources

1. Bedwetting (Enuresis) in Adults — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Nocturnal Enuresis in Adults: Clinical Features and Management — National Library of Medicine.
3. Urinary Incontinence in Adults: Diagnosis and Management — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Bedwetting (Enuresis) - Mayo Clinic — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guide provides general information about bedwetting management and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience emergency symptoms or have concerns, please seek immediate medical attention or consult a healthcare professional in person.