Prevent Urinary Issues in Children

By the time children reach the age of seven, around 8% of girls and 2% of boys are expected to have had at least one urinary tract infection (UTI). Children with issues including urinary incontinence are more likely to have them. If your child can't communicate due to age or other factors, it can be hard to assess whether your child has a UTI. There are various methods to recognize if a child has a urinary tract infection (UTI). If you want to know how to tell if your child has a UTI and what to do if you suspect it, read on.

What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

Urinary tract infections, as the name suggests, are infections of the urinary tract caused by bacteria that enter the urinary system. The urinary system includes the bladder, kidneys, ureters (tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder and carry urine), and the urethra.  The urethra is a tube that links the bladder to the outside of the body, allowing urine to be expelled. Bacteria can enter a child's urethra and urine in many ways. 

How to Tell If Your Child Has a Urinary Tract Infection

The only way to know if your child has a urinary tract infection is to have a urine test done after a doctor has diagnosed it. If you suspect your child has this condition, it is best to take them to the doctor immediately to prevent the condition from becoming serious or contagious. If your child shows or reports any of the following symptoms, this could be a sign of a urinary tract infection.

• Pain, stinging, or burning when urinating
• Frequent urination or need to urinate
• Urinating small amounts, but more often than normal
• Wetting accidents
• Urine that is cloudy, red, scarlet, or brown, or contains visible blood.
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Nausea 

Treatment for Urinary Tract Infections in Children

The most effective way to treat urinary tract infections is with antibiotics, usually in tablet or syrup form. Children with severe infections may go to the hospital and be given antibiotics through drip. Once your child has started antibiotics, their urinary tract infection symptoms should disappear within 48 hours. As with all antibiotics, always follow the instructions for use and continue to give your child antibiotics until the entire course of treatment is complete, even if they are feeling better.

How to Prevent and Manage UTIs in Children

Up to 30 percent of children under age six may have recurrent urinary tract infections, so don't be surprised if your child has more than one urinary tract infection throughout their life.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do at home to prevent your child from getting a recurring UTI and to manage the uncomfortable symptoms of a UTI: