Urinary tract infections (UTI) can be common and occur in pretty much any demographic. This includes children. UTIs happen when bacteria get into the bladder or kidneys, affecting the urinary tract.
If you suspect your child has a urinary infection or is struggling with recurrent UTIs it is best to seek help from a pediatric Urologist in Dayton, Ohio. Oftentimes, a UTI won’t go away on its own and may require antibiotics for treatment.
Symptoms of a UTI in Children
Children experience UTI symptoms similar to adult UTIs. As most parents know, however, children can’t always express in words what they are experiencing and we are left guessing. If you suspect your child has a UTI you may notice the following symptoms:
- Your child complains of pain, burning, or a stinging sensation when peeing
- Your child has an increased urge or more frequent need to pee (though only a very small amount of pee may be passed)
- Your child has a fever
- Your child is waking up at night a lot to go to the bathroom
- Your child is experiencing wetting problems, even though they are potty trained
- Your child complains of belly pain in the area of the bladder (generally below the belly button)
- Your child has foul-smelling pee that may look cloudy or contain blood
A baby with a UTI may have a fever, throw up, or be fussy
How Are UTIs Treated in Children?
UTIs are treated with antibiotics. Taking antibiotics kills the bacteria and helps kids feel well again. After several days of antibiotics, a urologist may retest the urine to ensure the infection is gone. It’s important to make sure of this because an incompletely treated UTI can come back or spread.
If a child has severe pain when peeing, a urologist may also prescribe medicine that numbs the lining of the urinary tract.
Give prescribed antibiotics on schedule for as many days as your doctor directs. Keep track of your child’s trips to the bathroom, and ask your child about symptoms like pain or burning during peeing. These symptoms should improve within 2 to 3 days after antibiotics are started.
Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, but skip drinks that contain caffeine (which can irritate the bladder), such as soda and iced tea.
Most UTIs are cured within a week with treatment.
Avoiding UTIs in Children
For infants and toddlers, frequent diaper changes are one way to help prevent the spread of bacteria that can cause UTIs. As they grow up and begin self-care, make sure your kids know good hygiene, such as wiping from front to back for girls. Older girls should avoid scented bubble baths and strong soaps that could cause irritation, and cotton underwear is less likely to spread bacteria. All children should drink plenty of fluids and avoid caffeine.
Seeking UTI Treatment From a Urologist in Dayton, Ohio
At Urology Specialists of Ohio, we can treat Urinary Tract Infections in adult patients. For pediatric urology care we advise our patients bring their children to pediatric Urology at Dayton Children’s hospital.