Bed wetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is considered bed wetting when an individual is past the age where bed-wetting is common. Soggy sheets are embarrassing for everyone. But contrary to popular belief, bed wetting doesn’t always end once we reach adulthood. Adult bed-wetting, though uncommon, can still happen. For those it happens to there are several underlying conditions that may be to blame. 

One condition that can affect both children and adults is obstructive sleep apnea caused by an obstructed upper airway.

The Importance of Upper Airway Development

Proper upper airway development is key to lifelong health. An obstructed upper airway can be detrimental to development and cause issues that can persist over a lifetime. The upper airway is important for breathing, swallowing, and speaking. In children who experience frequent bed wetting, OSA may be a possible reason. Studies have shown that children with OSA present signs of bed wetting more frequently than their peers. 

How OSA can Cause Bed wetting

Under ideal circumstances, a person breathes deeply through the nose and out the mouth. This promotes healthy development and regulation of bodily functions. Breathing through the nose promotes parasympathetic breathing, which in turn leads to more restful sleep.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when soft tissue in the neck closes or blocks the airway. As a result, individuals who suffer from OSA can’t breathe. As the oxygen supply decreases, carbon dioxide levels rise. This rise can lead to decreased heart rate and the contraction of blood vessels in the lungs. When this happens, your body realizes something is wrong and alerts your brain to wake up so you can get oxygen. When this happens, your brain can sometimes tell your body to release water and sodium, resulting in a wet bed.

So How Do We Fix This Problem?

The best way to address the problem of how to stop bedwetting is to go to the root. The obstructive sleep apnea you or your child experience may be caused by an obstructed airway caused by an underdeveloped jaw. The jaw is key to craniofacial and airway development. When it is misaligned or underdeveloped, the result can be an obstructed airway.

So how do we fix an obstructed airway?

Vivos technology is a new technology that aims to promote healthy jaw development in an attempt to address mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and airway issues. The devices are worn similar to a night guard, and guide the jaw towards its genetic potential. Vivos appliances are safe and non-invasive. 

For more information on Vivos Cranionfacial appliances join our bi-montly free online

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