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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Nocturia and Enuresis?

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The main difference between nocturia and enuresis lies in the arousal to bladder stimuli and the age of the individuals experiencing these conditions. Here are the key differences between nocturia and enuresis:

  • Nocturia: This condition describes frequent urination at night, meaning the need to wake up one or more times at night to urinate. It is most common in people over the age of 60 but can happen to anyone. Nocturia can be caused by various factors, such as heart and kidney disorders, diabetes, diuretic medicines, sedatives, and urge urinary.
  • Enuresis (Bedwetting): This condition refers to involuntary urination while asleep after the age at which staying dry at night can be expected. Bedwetting is also called "nighttime incontinence" or "nocturnal enuresis". It is a common problem for children, affecting more than 5 million children in the U.S., and is slightly more common in boys than in girls. Bedwetting in adults is different from what children experience and can be caused by various factors, including medications, constipation, urethral obstruction, ectopic ureter, cystitis, diabetes insipidus, sleep disorders, and small bladder capacity.

In summary, nocturia is characterized by frequent nighttime urination, while enuresis (bedwetting) involves involuntary urination during sleep. Nocturia is more common in older individuals, whereas enuresis is more prevalent in children.

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  • What is the Difference Between Nocturia and Enuresis?
  • Comparative Table: Nocturia vs Enuresis

    • Comparative Table: Nocturia vs Enuresis

    Nocturia and enuresis are two different medical conditions related to urination. Here is a table summarizing the differences between them:

    Nocturia Enuresis
    Involves waking up frequently at night to urinate Involves the involuntary loss of urine during sleep
    Primarily affects older adults Primarily affects young children
    Not associated with bladder control loss Associated with bladder control loss
    May be treated with therapies and medications, such as desmopressin acetate (DDAVP), imipramine, and antidepressants May be treated with therapies and medications
    Can be diagnosed through physical examination and blood tests Can be diagnosed through physical examination and blood tests
    More common in men than women More common in men than women

    Both nocturia and enuresis are associated medical conditions, and enuresis or urinary incontinence may be a cause of nocturia.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.