Some believe that certain children who wet at night may produce too much urine while sleeping. They claim that bedwetting may occur because the body does not make enough antidiuretic hormone (ADH) at night.
Antidiuretic hormone is a chemical that is normally made by the body that causes the kidneys to make less urine. This hormone prevents the kidneys from making too much urine during times of dehydration. Without ADH, the body would make normal or extra amounts of urine even when the body needs to keep more fluid.
Some studies have shown this hormone to be low at night in some children with bedwetting problems. If this were true, then bedwetters would make too much urine while they are asleep and become more likely to wet at night. Although a possible cause, most studies have not shown a definite problem with antidiuretic hormone levels in most children with bedwetting. Medication can increase ADH levels in children at night. This medication may stop or decrease the bedwetting in those with low ADH levels.
Dr. Smith is board certified and he has authored or co-authored many articles, papers, chapters, and books in Urology and Pediatric Urology. His research has been presented throughout the world. Dr. Smith’s dedication to helping children with urologic problems inspired him to establish PottyMD.
