Red flags & when to go in person for Bedwetting (Enuresis) - Management

Audience: adult

Bedwetting, also called enuresis, is when an adult unintentionally urinates during sleep. It can happen for many reasons, such as stress, urinary tract infections, or other health issues. While bedwetting is often manageable, it can sometimes signal a more serious problem. Telemedicine can help you discuss symptoms, learn about lifestyle changes, and get advice on managing bedwetting. However, certain signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person. These include sudden changes in symptoms, pain, or other concerning symptoms. This guide helps you understand when to seek in-person care, what telemedicine can and cannot do, and how to prepare for a virtual visit. Remember, this information is educational and not a diagnosis. If you have urgent or severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden onset of bedwetting with pain or burning during urination — seek in-person care promptly.
• Blood in urine (visible or detected) — requires urgent medical evaluation.
• New daytime urinary incontinence or neurological symptoms like weakness or numbness — seek immediate medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to bedwetting.
• Providing education on lifestyle changes and bladder training techniques.
• Reviewing medication lists and advising on possible side effects.
• Arranging referrals for laboratory tests or imaging if needed.
• Follow-up visits to monitor progress and adjust management plans.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or diagnostic tests in person.
• Managing urgent symptoms such as severe pain, blood in urine, or neurological deficits.
• Diagnosing serious underlying conditions that require immediate attention.
• Providing emergency care for acute complications.

What is Adult Bedwetting (Enuresis)?

Adult bedwetting means accidentally urinating during sleep. It may happen occasionally or regularly. Causes can include urinary tract infections, bladder problems, diabetes, stress, or certain medications. Sometimes, it may be linked to deeper health issues that need medical attention.

When to Use Telemedicine for Bedwetting

Telemedicine can be a helpful first step. You can talk to a healthcare provider about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They can suggest ways to manage bedwetting, such as fluid management, bladder training, or referrals for tests. Telemedicine is useful for follow-up visits and general advice.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain symptoms require urgent or in-person evaluation:

If you notice any of these, seek in-person care promptly.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your virtual visit:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your appointment:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Record frequency and timing of bedwetting episodes.
• Note any associated symptoms like pain, urgency, or daytime incontinence.
• List all current medications and supplements.
• Prepare questions about management options and next steps.
• Ensure a private, quiet space with good internet for the tele-visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow recommended lifestyle or behavioral changes.
• Take prescribed medications as directed, if any.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits as advised.
• Monitor for any new or worsening symptoms.
• Seek immediate in-person care if red-flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can bedwetting start suddenly in adults?

Yes, adult bedwetting can sometimes begin suddenly. This may be due to infections, new medications, stress, or other health issues. Sudden changes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider, especially if accompanied by pain or other symptoms.

Is bedwetting a sign of a serious disease?

Bedwetting can be caused by many factors, some mild and others more serious. It may be linked to infections, diabetes, or neurological conditions. It's important to discuss symptoms with a healthcare provider to rule out serious causes.

Can telemedicine help manage bedwetting?

Telemedicine can help you discuss symptoms, receive advice on lifestyle changes, and get referrals for tests or treatments. However, some situations require in-person evaluation, especially if urgent symptoms or red flags are present.

What lifestyle changes can reduce bedwetting?

Common recommendations include limiting fluid intake in the evening, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, practicing bladder training exercises, and maintaining a regular bathroom schedule during the day.

When should I see a doctor in person for bedwetting?

See a doctor in person if you experience sudden bedwetting with pain, blood in urine, daytime incontinence, neurological symptoms, or if bedwetting is new and persistent. These signs may indicate a need for urgent evaluation.

Sources

1. Bedwetting (Enuresis) in Adults — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Nocturnal Enuresis in Adults: Clinical Review — National Library of Medicine.
3. Urinary Incontinence in Adults: Diagnosis and Management — Mayo Clinic.
4. Enuresis (Bedwetting) in Adults — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience urgent or severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.