Paediatric urinary incontinence

Abstract

Urinary incontinence, both in the day and at night, is common in school-aged children and can be very distressing for children and their families. An accurate history together with a thorough physical examination is essential for assessing and diagnosing urinary incontinence. Conservative treatment should be offered to all children. If that fails, treatment with anticholinergic drugs could be tried in those with daytime urinary incontinence and overactive bladder. After addressing any daytime bladder symptoms, treatment with alarm therapy is recommended for children with nocturnal enuresis. Desmopressin is another option.