Intermittent Adult Bedwetting

I am a very healthy, active, non-smoking 29yo male, 6'2", 185 lb.  I have no history of bedwetting.  About 1 yr. ago, I began having dreams at night that I have to urinate and then wake up having emptied most or all of my bladder in bed.  This happens every 4-6 wks. with no regularity and  at one time there was a period of about 4 months w/no episodes.  It always occurs right in the middle of the night, about 3-4 hours after going to sleep.  I always wake up during or right after.  My wife and I have tried to discern patterns, ie:  stress, diet, sexual habits, etc. but there is nothing that seems to affect it or cause it.  I have no other bladder, incontinence, prostate, sexual problems.  

Please try to give us as thorough an answer as possible as we have no health insurance or ability to see a local doctor.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There are various considerations for adult-onset enuresis (bedwetting).  This can include prostate problems which can cause obstruction as well as overflow incontinence.  A thorough prostate examination should be performed, and if enlarged, there are medications that can be given to shrink it.

Testing the urine should be a priority.  Diseases like infection or diabetes can cause excessive nightime urination.

There are also uncommon cases of obstructive sleep apnea that can lead to nighttime urination.  Often this is accompanied by loud snoring.  A sleep study can be suggested to evaluate this condition.  If present, a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine can be considered.

I would suggest a referral to a urologist for further opinions.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

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