Does your little one have a urinary tract infection (UTI)? What parents need to know

Has your little one suddenly developed a fever, stopped eating, and cried all the time? Or does he complain of a stomachache every time he goes to the toilet? Many parents think it's a cold or flu. But it could be something more serious, a urinary tract infection (UTI). This condition is quite common in young children, but it can be serious if not diagnosed and treated properly. So, let's talk about this in detail today.

First, let's see, what is a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

Simply put, a urinary tract infection (UTI) is when a germ, such as bacteria, enters our body's urinary system and causes an infection.

Now you might be thinking, "What is this urinary system?" Our urinary system consists of:

• Kidneys: The two main organs in our body that filter waste products from the blood and produce urine.
• Ureters: The two tubes that carry urine, produced in the kidneys, to the bladder.
• Bladder: A sac-like organ that collects and stores urine for a short period of time.
• Urethra: The tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.

An infection can occur anywhere in this system. Most often, it occurs in the bladder, so some people also call it a "bladder infection." A bladder infection is medically called cystitis . However, if this infection travels up to the kidneys, it is a more serious condition. We call it pyelonephritis .

How do you know if a child has a UTI?

Symptoms may vary depending on the age of the child. It's not the symptoms that a small baby shows, but the symptoms that a slightly older child shows. Let's break this down into two parts.

Symptoms in breastfed babies and young children (under 2 years old)

Children this age can't say, "Mom, it hurts when I urinate ." So we are the ones who need to be very attentive to these symptoms.

Symptoms in slightly older children

These children can talk a little about their discomfort, so it's a little easier to recognize the symptoms.

These symptoms are the same for both girls and boys.

Why do children get these urinary tract infections?

Most of the time, this is caused by bacteria. The main culprit is a bacteria called E. coli . This bacteria is usually found in our feces (in the digestive system). If we don't clean up properly after going to the toilet, this bacteria can enter the urethra from the anus. From there, it travels up and causes the infection.

Very rarely, UTIs can also be caused by fungal infections.

Who is at higher risk of developing urinary tract infections?

Some children are more likely to develop UTIs than others.

• Girls: Girls have a shorter urethra than boys. It is also closer to the anus (where feces exit). This makes it easier for bacteria in feces to enter the urethra.
• Vesicoureteral reflux: This is a condition that some children are born with. What happens here is that urine flows back up from the bladder, towards the kidneys. This makes it easier for bacteria to reach the kidneys.
• Constipation: If your child is constipated frequently, the bladder may not empty completely due to a full bowel movement. When urine remains in the bladder, it creates a good environment for bacteria to grow.
• Birth defects of the urinary system: Some children may be born with certain abnormalities in the urinary system. This can also cause obstruction of urine flow and lead to infections.
• Holding in urine: Children who hold back when they need to go to the toilet are also at higher risk of developing infections. Many children do this while playing or watching TV.
• Uncircumcised boys: It has been found that uncircumcised boys have a slightly higher risk of developing UTIs than circumcised boys.

What complications can occur if left untreated?

Don't think, "Just a little urine infection will get better on its own." A urinary tract infection in a child definitely requires medical attention. If left untreated, serious complications can occur, such as:

• Kidney infection: The condition we talked about earlier (Pyelonephritis). This can be very difficult for the child.
• Kidney scarring: If you have frequent or severe kidney infections, permanent scarring can occur in your kidneys. This can lead to problems like chronic kidney failure and high blood pressure in the future.
• Sepsis: This is a very serious condition. The infection spreads to the bloodstream and the body's organs begin to fail. This can be life-threatening.
• Growth failure: Frequent illness can cause a child's growth to be stunted.

How do you find this, Doctor?

When you go to the doctor because you are suspicious of your child's symptoms, the first thing he or she will do is ask you about your child's symptoms. Then, they may perform tests such as these to confirm the diagnosis:

• Urinalysis: A sample of the child's urine is taken and checked for germs, pus cells, etc.
• Urine Culture: This is used to determine exactly what bacteria is in the urine sample and what antibiotic is best for it.
• Blood tests: Blood tests may also be done to check the severity of the infection and to check kidney function.
• Scans: If your child has frequent UTIs, your doctor may recommend something like an ultrasound scan to check for other problems with the kidneys or urinary system.

How is it treated?

Urinary tract infections are treated with antibiotics . The way these medications are given may vary depending on the child's age and the severity of the infection.

• Oral medication: Often given as a pill or liquid for about 7 to 14 days.
• Intravenous (IV) medication: If the child is very young, is in a lot of pain, and cannot take medication by mouth, they may need to be hospitalized and given intravenous (IV) medication.

The child should start to recover within two to three days. During that time, let the child rest well and drink plenty of water and fluids.

When should you immediately see a doctor or go to the ETU?

If you suspect your child has a urinary tract infection, be sure to see a doctor. Also, take your child to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately in the following cases:

• If the child is under 6 months old and shows symptoms of a UTI.
• If you have symptoms of UTI along with a high fever .
• If the child completely refuses to eat or vomits what they eat or drink .
• If you haven't urinated in more than six hours (unless the diaper is wet).
• If the skin or eyes turn yellow .
• If the child is in unbearable pain .
• If there is blood in the urine.

Also, if there is no improvement in the child's condition after three days of taking the medicine prescribed by the doctor, see the doctor again.

Can we prevent these urinary tract infections?

Yes, while it's not possible to completely prevent UTIs, there are many things we can do to reduce the risk of UTIs in children. It's important to make these daily habits.

• Proper cleaning: This is the most important thing. When cleaning a girl, especially, always wipe from front to back . That is, from the vagina to the anus. This prevents bacteria from the anus from entering the urinary tract. Teach your child the same correct method when toilet training.
• Changing nappies: Don't leave a wet or dirty nappy in for too long. Change it as soon as possible.
• Urinary incontinence: When your child needs to go to the toilet, tell them not to hold back by saying, "I'll go in a minute." Encourage your child to go to the toilet regularly.
• Drink plenty of water: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day flushes out bacteria in the urinary system.
• Clothing: Dress the child in cotton underwear that absorbs sweat and allows for ventilation.
• Preventing constipation: If your child is constipated, find a solution. Give them more vegetables, fruits, and fiber-rich foods. If the problem persists, talk to your doctor.
• Use of soap: Avoid using strong-smelling soaps or bubble baths on your child's genital area during bathing. These can irritate the delicate skin around the urethra and lead to infections. It is best to use a mild, unscented soap.

Urinary tract infections are common in children, but they are not something to be taken lightly. If you notice any changes in your child's behavior or daily habits, especially in toileting habits, consult a doctor immediately. Early treatment can prevent many serious complications.

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