Is Bed Wetting a Sign of Alcoholism?

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Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder, is a disorder that’s accompanied by a wide range of symptoms that affect both mind and body. From increased agitation and aggression to physical symptoms such as shakiness and coordination issues, the symptoms of alcoholism are relatively well-known and easily recognized.

But there are other symptoms that we may not think to associate with alcoholism or may avoid talking about because there is a stigma surrounding them. Nocturnal enuresis, or bed wetting, is one such symptom. Is bedwetting a sign of alcoholism? Let’s take a closer look at the possible link between the two in a non-judgmental, safe way. If you need help because you recognize this symptom alongside other symptoms of alcoholism, reach out to us here at Live Free Recovery Services to get the support that you deserve.

How Alcohol Affects the Body

Alcohol can greatly impact our sleep cycles and even our ability to stay asleep without urinating. Our body produces something known as antidiuretic hormone or ADH. Normally, ADH lets the kidneys know that they need to retain water. However, when drinking, alcohol can actually suppress ADH and the efficacy of its communication with the kidneys. This then leads to the kidneys releasing more water than usual, causing frequent urination and dehydration.

More than that, alcohol can heavily impact sleep. Those who drink heavily may find that they fall asleep faster, but the quality of your sleep can be impacted by shorter REM cycles that see you awake earlier and less well-rested. Those who struggle with alcohol dependency may even develop insomnia because of the impacts of alcohol on their sleep cycles. However, a night of heavy drinking may still lead to them passing out, which can be problematic if they’re unable to get to the bathroom.

Bed Wetting and Alcoholism

It’s important to remember that bed-wetting can happen to anyone, including the occasional drinker. Those who drink heavily one night may end up losing control of their bladder because their bodies are unable to retain water and because they aren’t woken up by normal queues. Of course, those who drink heavily often are also likely to experience this. When you drink copious amounts of alcohol to the point where you’re unable to function as you normally would, your ability to hold your urine or wake up when you need to in order to go to the bathroom is compromised.

But there’s a link with long-term alcohol abuse as well. Those with long-term alcohol use disorder can impact their bladder in two ways. The first way comes in the form of damage to the bladder itself. Long-term alcoholism can damage the bladder muscles and weaken the nerve signals, making it harder for the body to perform normal functions. This can lead to nocturnal enuresis or bed wetting outside of just issues with antidiuretic hormone communication.

Worse than that, regular drinking and a lack of proper urination can stretch the bladder and lead to urinary incontinence. This means that you essentially deal with involuntary urination or urinary leakage regardless of whether you’re awake or you’re asleep. Bedwetting can definitely be a sign of alcoholism, and it’s important to note that continued damage will result in issues that extend far beyond nocturnal enuresis. Getting help when you notice these signs is crucial to preventing further damage and leading a healthier lifestyle that may reduce the impact of these symptoms on daily life and mental health.

When Bed Wetting Could Be a Warning Sign

So, is bedwetting a sign of alcoholism? It’s important to recognize that this link is nuanced. If you’re someone who has a bit too much to drink occasionally and has had an accident once or twice, you may not struggle with alcohol use disorder. Practicing caution and learning better control will help you avoid such problems in the future. However, if you binge drink frequently and find yourself wetting the bed regularly because of your drinking habits, this may be a very clear warning sign that alcoholism is an underlying issue.

With the above in mind, it can sometimes be hard to recognize that you’re struggling with something unless you’re able to take a step back and look at all of the issues that you’re experiencing. Bed wetting may be embarrassing, but it may not be enough to help someone realize that they have a drinking problem.

Ask yourself, are you experiencing any physical symptoms associated with alcohol abuse? Are you having to drink daily to avoid shaking or finding yourself constantly falling down because of problems related to your motor skills? Are your personal relationships being threatened by your behavior? Are you finding it hard to follow through on your professional responsibilities and other responsibilities? If you notice other harmful patterns in your health or other parts of your life, bed wetting may just be one symptom that’s among many others.

Take an honest look at your behaviors to identify patterns. Awareness is the first step to taking action and cultivating real change in your life.

Addressing the Issue

So, how can you address bedwetting related to alcohol misuse? The first step is to reach out to a medical professional. Persistent bedwetting can stem from a variety of factors, such as weakened bladder control, overactive bladder, or disrupted urine production in the middle of the night. It may also be linked to underlying conditions like sleep apnea, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or even constipation, which can affect pelvic floor function and continence. Getting a diagnosis will help identify the causes of bedwetting and allow for a treatment plan that addresses any long-term damage to the bladder and other organs.

A medical professional may suggest lifestyle changes, such as monitoring fluid intake, improving hydration habits, or exploring treatments like desmopressin, which can regulate nighttime urine production.

It’s equally important to seek support for alcohol misuse. Rehabilitation facilities with experience treating alcohol use disorder can help you break free from harmful cycles that may contribute to nocturnal enuresis, wet sheets, and overall health concerns. Addressing alcohol misuse alongside co-occurring conditions, like depression or sleep disturbances, will provide the comprehensive care you need to achieve lasting wellness.

If you or a loved one is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for the help and support you deserve.

How Live Free Recovery Services Can Help

Live Free Recovery Services has extensive experience helping people just like you take the first steps toward addressing alcohol use disorder and healing from it. Our holistic approach, combined with numerous inpatient and outpatient programs, provides the medical and psychological support you need to understand the patterns behind your alcohol consumption and the effects of alcohol on your life.

Through proper therapeutic methods, we help you identify the triggers that contribute to drinking alcohol and guide you toward healthier coping strategies. Whether you need initial support to stop drinking safely in a medical environment or have recently recognized the need to reduce your alcohol intake, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

No matter where you are on your journey or how long you’ve been drinking, Live Free Recovery Services is dedicated to helping you achieve both mental and physical recovery. We’ll give you the tools and guidance you need to start fresh and work toward the alcohol-free, healthy life you deserve.

Contact Us Today to Begin Your Recovery Journey

There is a clear connection between bedwetting and alcohol use, particularly in cases of long-term alcohol misuse and binge drinking. While this symptom may be difficult or embarrassing to discuss, it is important to identify and address it as it may indicate an underlying medical condition or side effect of alcohol use. Seeking professional help can be a crucial step toward improving your mental and physical health and wellness.

If you’re ready to make a major change in your life, we encourage you to reach out to us here at Live Free Recovery Services. Our team of healthcare professionals is ready to answer any questions you may have, discuss treatment options, and guide you through the admissions process. Let us help you take the first steps toward a healthier, better life!