Abnormal daytime potty habits medically referred to as “dysfunctional elimination syndrome”, presents at all ages and in a wide variety of ways. Early after potty training, it is very common for children to feel like they need to use the restroom frequently. Urinary frequency is the most common urinary complaint in children three to four years of age.
These children may also have intermittent episodes of not using the restroom for long
periods of time, as well as episodes of urgency and frequency. Children with these problems not only use the restroom often, they also go in a hurry. Episodes of urgency and frequency can be very frustrating to parents. Urinary accidents, day or night, are also directly related to abnormal potty habits. Daytime accidents are commonly due to a child holding for so long that she eventually cannot get to the restroom quickly enough.
Daytime incontinence can occur without any apparent notice, warning, or sensation to void. In other words, your child may have held her urine without even being aware. Abdominal pains, urinary tract infections, constipation, blood in the urine, and genital discomforts are also very common symptoms of children that have not “learned to stop and to go.”
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.