What is urinary tract infection (UTI) in children?
A urinary tract infection is when the part of the system that carries urine out of the body is infected by bacteria causing inflammation.
The urinary tract includes-
Kidneys: Remove waste from the blood in the form of urine
Ureters: Carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder
Bladder: Storage unit of urine
Urethra: Carries urine out of the body
What Are the Symptoms of UTI in Children?
• Fever and Vomiting
• Bad-smelling urine
• Irritability and crying
• Diarrhea
• Sudden or often urination
• Loss of control of urine (incontinence)
• Pain while urinating
• Pain above the pubic bone
• Blood in the urine
• Pain below the ribs
The symptoms of a UTI are similar to other health conditions. Consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
What Causes UTI in Children?
Urine in our body contains components of water, salt, and other waste products.
An infection or UTI happens when germs (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) enter the urinary tract and begin to grow.
Most urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria, and the most common is Escherichia coli (E. coli) which normally lives in the colon (digestive tract).
Who Are More Likely to Get UTI?
A UTI is not common in children below the age of 5 years. It is more common in girls due to shorter urethra when compared to men. However, uncircumcised boys are at high risk for a UTI than circumcised boys.
How is a UTI in Children Diagnosed?
Urine testing or urinalysis to check for signs of infection.
Kidney ultrasound to make images of the organs of the urinary tract. It shows internal organs’ images as they function and can assess blood flow through vessels.
Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG): A type of X-ray of the urinary tract to see for any reverse flow of urine into the ureters and kidneys.
How is a UTI in Children Treated?
Treatment depends on symptoms, age, and severity of the condition.
Treatment includes:
• Medications (Antibiotics or pain relief medicines)
• Drinking plenty of water
Talk with your doctor about the treatment plan and ways to prevent UTIs.
How to Prevent UTI in Children?
• Add more fluids to the diet
• Change diapers frequently
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing and undergarments
• Avoid caffeine, which can cause bladder irritation
• Teach proper hygiene for a clean genital area
• Teach safe wiping techniques
• Avoid tub-bath and swimming
Myth and Fact
Urinary Tract Infections in Children
Myth: Washing the vagina with soap water helps prevent a UTI
Fact: Using soaps or chemicals to clean the vagina does not help prevent a UTI. Do Not Use Soaps to Clean the Vagina.
Gently wash only the exterior portion of the genitals with soap and water.
Urinary Tract Infections in Children
Myth: Tight-fitting clothes and undergarments can cause UTIs
Fact: Although it is not a cause of UTI, it is always better to wear loose cotton clothing and always keep clothing dry as wet environments attract bacteria more often.
