Lazy Bladder Symptoms

Lack of muscle tone in the bladder can lead to chronic incontinence and recurring infections, most often in girls. Lazy bladder syndrome (LBS) affects some 6 percent of children, according to Bruce I. Carlin and Fah Che Leong, authors of "Female Pelvic Health and Reconstructive Surgery." Treatment involves teaching the child to go to the bathroom more often, even if she does not feel any urge to do so.

Infrequent Urination

Children with LBS lack a full-bladder sensation, so eight to 12 hours might pass between trips to the toilet.

Accidents

Kids with LBS often have urinary accidents between restroom visits. Often they are not aware that they are wetting themselves.

Bladder Infections

When LBS children urinate, they often don't empty their bladders completely. Bacteria can grow in the retained urine.

Weak Stream

The LBS child's flaccid bladder cannot push urine out with much force. The stream is a trickle.

Constipation

Some LBS kids' stools dry out and harden between toileting sessions, making it difficult to have a bowel movement.

References

• Female Pelvic Health and Reconstructive Surgery; Bruce I. Carlin, Fah Che Leong; 2003

Resources

• Lazy Bladder Syndrome