Urinary Tract Infections In Children Require Medical Care

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are incredibly common, even in children. While they are more common in girls, boys can also contract them. These infections can spread, worsening to the point that they can harm your kidneys and other bodily functions.

Do you think your child might have a UTI? These are some of the things you need to know about these infections.

First, What Is a UTI?

Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enter the urethra, the part of the body that expels urine from the body. Bacteria can move from the urethra to the bladder and even to the kidneys. The symptoms of a UTI include fever, burning urination, stomach pain, and discomfort in the bladder and urinary tract.

Urinary tracts can be caused by any kind of bacteria working its way from the anus to the urethra. The distance between the anus and urethra in females is shorter, which leads to more frequent UTIs for them.

How Are UTIs Treated?

Treatment for UTIs involves antibiotics. Antibiotics can usually relieve the symptoms in a week or so, provided that your child takes the medications all the way through.

The doctor will provide you with a prescription for antibiotics after diagnosis, which usually involves a urine sample and lab test. This is a fairly simple process.

How Can You Prevent UTIs in Children?

Preventing UTIs in children can be more difficult than you think. For example, you need to be more careful about changing your child's diapers more often to ensure that feces are not near the urethra. Additionally, avoid using bubble baths and fragrances in your child's bathwater, as these items can cause irritation as well.

If your child is older, make sure that you are careful about teaching your child how to take care of themselves in the bathroom. Show them how to wipe after a bowel movement by wiping from front to back, for example.

Finally, make sure that your child knows to use the bathroom as soon as they feel the urge to do so. Holding in urine can actually allow bacteria to develop, leading to infection.

What Should You Do Next?

If you suspect that your child has a UTI, they need pediatric care. Make an appointment for your child as soon as possible to ensure that they receive the necessary treatment. Pediatric doctors are well-versed in these types of health issues in children.

Do you have additional questions? Contact a local pediatric care service.

Share