Parents quickly spring into action when they hear these words. Changing wet sheets and comforting an upset or embarrassed child isn't fun for anyone in the middle of the night.

Many families struggle with bed-wetting. It's a normal part of child development. It isn't anyone's fault, but that doesn't mean it can't be stressful, especially for older kids. Here's what you need to know about this common condition.

Bed-wetting, also known as nocturnal incontinence or nocturnal enuresis, is the involuntary release of urine while asleep. It happens after the age at which staying dry at night is reasonably expected. Bed-wetting up to age 7 is common and not a concern. Most kids outgrow bed-wetting on their own by the time they are 12.

When a child starts to experience bed-wetting, especially secondary bed-wetting, we work with parents to figure out why it is happening. There is a strong family connection with bed-wetting. About 40% to 50% of kids with nocturnal bed-wetting had a parent who struggled with bed-wetting as a child.

Treatment usually isn't necessary for primary bed-wetting or children under 7. A watch-and-see approach is usually the best option, as we can expect an 8% to 10% improvement every year the child grows. Most children outgrow bed-wetting on their own.

Bed-wetting can be frustrating and embarrassing for children. It can cause anxiety, especially for children planning sleepovers with friends. Children look to their parents for their response to the situation and for acceptance regardless of their struggles.

Remember, bed-wetting isn't anyone's fault. Your child isn't lazy and isn't doing it on purpose. Most likely, it's a familial gift passed down by one of the parents.

Talk with your child's health care team about weight loss, burning or cloudy urine, daytime incontinence, or increased thirst, as they could be a sign of a different, treatable condition.

Manjunatha, M.D., is a pediatrician in Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine in ;Eau Claire, Wisconsin.