Most people normally begin to produce arginine vasopressin between the ages of two and five. It limits the amount of urine produced at night so the bladder does not overflow. In many bedwetters, the production of appropriate levels of arginine vasopressin is delayed, just as puberty occurs later in some people than others. Others may also be afraid to invite friends to their home because of the lingering smell of urine. As the child develops emotionally, so can the problem, and many children end up feeling angry, moody, ashamed or bewildered.
Parents can also experience psychological distress.
They may feel perplexed or frustrated, concerned for their child's well-being and, in some cases, may be intolerant and resort to punishing their child. Parents can also face a burden of increased laundry, the cost of replacing mattresses and the expense of diapers. Despite this, many parents are reluctant to talk about the condition, not only with friends but also with their family doctor. They may be too embarrassed or simply believe that the child will eventually grow out of the condition and the family just has to put up with it. Safe and effective treatments are available that will control the bedwetting episodes in the majority of cases, and, in some instances, even cure them.