How common is bedwetting in obstructive sleep apnoea?

Obstructive sleep apnoea causes repeated narrowing or closure of the upper airway during sleep. The resulting arousals and changes in breathing can affect sleep quality and nighttime bladder control. Snoring, restless sleep, mouth breathing, morning headaches, daytime tiredness, or difficulty concentrating may also be present. Bedwetting has several possible causes, so it does not by itself establish obstructive sleep apnoea.

Tell a clinician if bedwetting has started again, continues beyond the expected stage of development, or occurs with loud snoring or pauses in breathing. Record wet nights, sleep quality, snoring, and daytime tiredness. A clinician may examine the nose, mouth, and throat and discuss a sleep assessment. Avoid blame or punishment; reassurance supports the child while the cause is explored.

Seek prompt medical advice for witnessed breathing pauses, gasping, choking during sleep, marked daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, or worsening school or work concentration. Get urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, collapse, or unusual difficulty waking.

Could the snoring and wetting be related to obstructed breathing? Does a sleep assessment fit the symptoms? What other causes should be checked, and how can we protect sleep and confidence while waiting?