Urinary Tract Infections in Children

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can occur in children due to various reasons. UTIs in children are generally caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra and multiplying in the bladder. The following are some key points about urinary tract infections in children:

Symptoms : The signs and symptoms of a UTI in children may vary depending on their age. Infants and young children may exhibit symptoms such as fever, irritability, poor feeding, vomiting, diarrhoea, foul-smelling urine, and general discomfort. Older children may experience symptoms similar to adults, including frequent urination, pain or a burning sensation during urination, cloudy or blood-tinged urine, and lower abdominal pain.

Causes : UTIs in children are often caused by bacteria, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) being the most common culprit. In some cases, other bacteria or even viruses can cause UTIs. Factors that increase the risk of UTIs in children include inadequate hygiene practices, constipation, urinary tract abnormalities, vesicoureteral reflux (a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder to the kidneys), and in rare cases, structural abnormalities of the urinary tract.

Diagnosis : If a UTI is suspected in a child, a healthcare provider will typically request a urine sample for testing. The sample can be obtained by collecting a clean-catch urine sample or through a catheter or suprapubic aspiration (collecting urine directly from the bladder). The urine sample will be examined for the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, and other abnormalities.

Treatment : The treatment of UTIs in children usually involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. The choice of antibiotic will depend on the specific bacteria causing the infection and any known drug allergies. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if the child’s symptoms improve before the medication is finished. In some cases, further evaluation or imaging studies may be recommended to identify any underlying factors contributing to the UTI.

Prevention : To help prevent UTIs in children, encourage them to maintain good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and proper wiping after using the toilet. Girls should be taught to wipe from front to back to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anal area to the urethra. It is also important to ensure children are well-hydrated and that they urinate regularly. For children with recurrent UTIs or underlying urinary tract abnormalities, further evaluation and preventive measures may be necessary.
If you suspect that your child has a urinary tract infection, it is essential to consult a paediatric surgeon for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. A paediatric surgeon will be able to guide you regarding problems specific to your child.