Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria and are one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide. Girls are particularly prone to developing UTIs, with about 50% of them experiencing a UTI at some point in their lives. UTIs can also recur, which is why doctors prescribe antibiotics to treat them.
In this article, we’ll explore how to identify a UTI in your child and how medical professionals diagnose UTIs in toddlers. Let’s delve into the details of urinary tract infections.
What is a UTI?
UTIs are common in children due to bacteria growing in the urinary tract when not expelled through urination. The urinary tract consists of organs and tissues that produce and eliminate urine, including two kidneys, two ureters, a bladder, and a urethra.
- The kidneys filter blood and excess water to produce urine.
- Two ureters or tubes carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
- The bladder stores urine until it can be eliminated from the body.
- The urethra carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.
UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and can affect the bladder or kidneys. Cystitis is a bladder infection, while pyelonephritis is a kidney infection. Both can be treated with antibiotics, but untreated kidney infections can cause severe complications.
How Are Common Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Among Children?
Urinary tract infections are common in children. By age 7, 1 in 12 girls and 1 in 50 boys have UTIs.
Who Are The Most Susceptible Infants And Toddlers?
- UTIs are more common in immunodeficient children and those who have taken antibiotics for a longer time.
- Pediatric organ transplant patients are also more susceptible to UTIs.
- Infections are more likely to occur in children born with urinary tract abnormalities.
- UTIs can also affect both children and adults.
What Causes UTI In Kids?
Normal urine is sterile and free of bacteria or other infectious agents. UTIs are caused by microorganisms that attach to the urethra’s opening and reproduce:
- E. coli bacteria are the most common cause of gastrointestinal infections and responsible for 85% of UTIs in children.
- Other bacteria that can cause UTIs in children include Citrobacter, Enterobacter, Enterococcus, Klebsiella, Proteus, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus.
- These bacteria can be found in the child’s digestive system, reproductive system, or on their skin.
UTI Symptoms In Children
The signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the child’s age. Newborns and children as young as a year old may not show any symptoms. Younger children who develop UTIs may display a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Fever of 101°F
- Hazy or bloody urine
- Change in urine smell or color
- Frequent and urgent urination
- Lower abdominal and groin cramping
- Urinary burn or discomfort
If the infection affects different parts of the urinary tract, other symptoms may occur, such as:
- Lower back or pelvic pain or pressure below the navel
- Urinary accidents after toilet training
- Bedwetting
- Urinary incontinence
- Pain, stinging, or burning during urination
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Urinating with little output
If the infection spreads to the kidneys, symptoms may become more severe, including:
- Back or side pain
- Bloating
- High fever
- Extreme tiredness
- Irritability
- Shivering and chills
- Flushed or hot skin
- Vomiting and nausea
The early signs of a UTI in children are often overlooked, especially in children under ten who may have difficulty explaining their pain. If your child appears ill and has a high fever without any obvious symptoms, consult their doctor to determine if they have a UTI.
UTI Complications In Kids
A child’s urinary tract infection (UTI) can have severe and long-term health consequences if not treated promptly. If left untreated, a urinary tract infection (UTI) can lead to kidney infection, which in turn can cause more severe conditions such as-
- kidney infection
- kidney impairment or kidney disease
- kidney swelling (hydronephrosis)
- Sepsis causes organ failure and death
Diagnosis
Diagnosis for UTI includes
- Medical history discussion and physical examination.
- Leukocyte esterase and urine culture tests are recommended to check for bacteria or white blood cells.
- Blood tests can be done to check for infection or kidney function.
- Ultrasound or CT scan may be ordered to examine the kidneys and bladder.
- A voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) examination may be done to detect vesicoureteral reflux (VUR).
What Are The Treatment Options For UTIs?
- UTIs are treated with antibiotics and a follow-up urine test is important to ensure the infection is eliminated.
- Medications that numb the urinary tract lining may be prescribed for extreme pain during urination.
- Antibiotics must be taken exactly as prescribed and daily to avoid recurrence or spread of infection.
- Monitor restroom usage and discomfort, symptoms should improve within 2-3 days of treatment.
- Encourage water consumption and avoid caffeine-containing drinks.
- Most UTIs are cured within one week of treatment.
Infections of the Urinary Tract
- Severe infections may require hospitalization and IV antibiotics.
- Children as young as 6 months old can get UTIs via the bloodstream.
If the following is true-
- Children with VUR need close monitoring and may require surgery.
- VUR can cause kidney damage or failure if left untreated.
Can UTIs Be Prevented?
Following these suggestions will help you avoid getting a UTI-
- Change diapers frequently for children
- Teach good hygiene for potty-trained children
- Wipe from anus to urethra for girls
- Avoid bubble baths and strong soaps for school-age girls
- Choose cotton underwear over nylon
- Encourage regular bathroom breaks, don’t “hold it”
- Avoid caffeine-free beverages for children.
Conclusion
UTIs are common in children caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent potential health complications. Parents should be vigilant (keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties) and consult a doctor if their child shows any signs of a UTI.
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