What does enuresis refer to in medical terms?

Enuresis is a term specifically used in medical contexts to describe involuntary urination, particularly during sleep, which is commonly known as bedwetting. The term comes from the Greek word "enourein," meaning "to urinate." It is often associated with children who may still be developing bladder control and sometimes occurs in adults as well. Recognizing enuresis is important for diagnosing potential underlying conditions or developmental issues.

The other options, while related to urinary issues, describe different conditions. Frequent urination, for instance, indicates a need to urinate more often than normal and can stem from various causes, including urinary tract infections or diabetes. Difficulty urinating refers to any challenges experienced during the urination process, which could be due to obstructions or neurological disorders. Increased thirst is a symptom often associated with conditions such as diabetes or dehydration, rather than being directly related to the act of urination itself. Thus, the term enuresis is distinctly defined as involuntary urination.