Is nocturnal enuresis a predisposing factor for the overactive bladder?

Abstract

Background/aims: To perform a limited observational study to ascertain whether there is statistical support that nocturnal enuresis (NE) is a predisposing factor in the development of overactive bladder (OAB). Materials and methods: The authors recruited patients diagnosed with OAB over a period of twelve months, and those who declared a history of NE were asked additional questions regarding the features of their NE. Results: A total of 285 patients were diagnosed with overactive bladder, and 98 (34.38%) of them had previously displayed NE symptoms that had diminished before reaching the median age of 9.83. Separation of patients by sex revealed a male majority (58.16%). Additionally, most patients had urban origins (75.51%). The median time span from remission of NE to diagnosis of OAB was 24.79 years, and the median age at which patients began to suffer was 31.80 years. Behavioural factors (smoking, alcohol consumption) and psychological and infectious factors (past history of urinary tract infection) were identified at varying degrees. Conclusions: The presence of NE in a third of the patients who in time developed OAB and the earlier onset of OAB for these patients suggests a causal physio-pathological relationship between NE and OAB. The preponderance of urban patients confirm the existence of acquired urban triggering factors of OAB (nutritious, social, or professional). Keywords: Nocturnal enuresis, Overactive bladder, Predisposing cause, Risk factors.