Is your child constantly running to the restroom or having frequent daytime accidents? Every child develops control at their own pace, but persistent symptoms could point to a urinary disorder like overactive bladder (OAB).
For clear answers and effective solutions, turn to the specialists at Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center in Hemet, California. Our team specializes in adult and pediatric urology, helping patients of all ages live more comfortable, confident lives.
While pediatric OAB can be frustrating for parents and kids alike, it's highly manageable with the right treatment strategies. Find out why it happens and when it’s time to see a urologist.
OAB is a disorder that affects the way the bladder stores and releases urine. In children, the condition causes frequent, intense urges to urinate that often lead to episodes of incontinence during the day or overnight.
Because bladder control develops gradually during early childhood, occasional accidents are common in young kids. By age 5, around 90% of children can reliably control their bladder during the day. Nighttime bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis) may continue past this age, and is usually a separate issue from OAB.
The exact cause of OAB in children isn’t always clear. For many kids, symptoms improve as bladder control continues to develop, but several other factors can also trigger or worsen urinary urgency or incontinence:
Though it may seem unrelated, constipation is a common cause of OAB symptoms. A buildup of stool in the colon can physically press against the bladder wall, reducing the amount of liquid it can comfortably hold.
Certain foods and beverages can irritate the bladder lining and worsen OAB symptoms. Culprits include caffeine, carbonated drinks, artificial sweeteners, and acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes.
Emotional stress can interfere with the communication between the brain and the bladder, disrupting normal function and control. For children, stressful events and changes like moving or starting at a new school may result in increased urgency and accidents.
While less common, persistent bladder symptoms may sometimes point to an underlying medical issue. For example, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can irritate the bladder and cause a frequent, sudden need to urinate, while constant thirst combined with excessive urination could be an early sign of type 1 diabetes.
Occasional accidents are a normal part of growing up and aren’t usually a cause for concern. However, persistent daytime symptoms that continue past age 5 may warrant a closer look, especially if they interfere with activities or cause embarrassment at school.
Depending on the cause of your child’s symptoms, we may recommend strategies such as:
Seek prompt medical treatment if your child experiences painful urination, especially when accompanied by back pain or fever, as these signs indicate a UTI.
To learn more about overactive bladder in children and the treatment options available, schedule an appointment at Hemet Valley Urology Medical Center today.
