It’s a mark that can create a lot of worry, frustration, and nervousness for kids. Now, researchers are looking at DNA evidence that could help older children battle bedwetting.

“Very often it's genetic. Actually, there is evidence that a gene, chromosome number 22 may in part be responsible,” explains Dr. Bruce Berget, a pediatrician on the medical staff of Lee Memorial Health System.

While research is being conducted, Dr. Berget has a checklist for parents to help their children beat bedwetting. The first, monitor the child’s bowel habits. “It’s important to know that children who are constipated tend to have problems with bedwetting,” adds Dr. Berget. Keep a food diary. “There is actually some empiric evidence that the kind of things children eat: such as punches, pizza, may contribute to bedwetting,” says Dr. Berget.

If the child is still wetting the bed, a trip to the doctor is in order. Dr. Berget believes there could be bigger issues, “Stress, illness, a urinary infection; but upper respiratory infection as well.”

Parents should also seek medical attention immediately if their children is experiencing daytime wetting. That could signal a kidney or bladder problem.