Nocturnal enuresis

Abstract

Nocturnal enuresis holds a unique place among the parasomnias. There is a distinct maturational component to the natural history of nocturnal enuresis, with a degree of spontaneous resolution over childhood but yet with some persistence into adulthood. Events are not linked to any specific stage of sleep and polysomnography is often normal. There is a relationship between enuresis, arousal threshold, and other sleep disorders including sleep apnea, but this relationship remains poorly defined. Nocturnal enuresis is treatable using behavioral methods including the use of an alarm system, and this may be a preferred treatment over the use of medications.