Urinary tract infection in children is one of the most widespread health problems in early age stages and may cause pain and complications if not dealt with quickly.
The effectiveness of treating urinary tract infection in children depends on early diagnosis and adherence to home and medical treatment steps accurately, alongside improving the child's daily habits.
What is urinary tract infection in children?
Urinary tract infections in children
Urinary tract infection in children is an infection that affects any part of the urinary system, whether the bladder, urethra, or kidneys, and often results from harmful bacteria entering and spreading within the urinary tract.
Causes of urinary tract infection in children
Some causes that lead to urinary tract infection in children:
- Transfer of bacteria from the diaper area to the urethra.
- Low intake of water and fluids.
- Holding urine for long periods.
- Weak immunity or the presence of repeated infections.
- Rare anatomical problems in the urinary system.
Symptoms of urinary tract infection in children
Some common symptoms indicating the presence of urinary tract infection in children:
- Noticeable high temperature.
- Pain or burning during urination.
- Strong or foul-smelling urine.
- Frequent urination in small amounts.
- Pain in the abdomen or lower back.
- Mood changes or loss of appetite in infants.
Methods of treating urinary tract infection in children at home
Some steps to reduce the discomfort of the infection, but they do not replace the essential treatment for urinary tract infection in children:
- Encouraging the child to drink large amounts of water to increase urine flow and flush out bacteria.
- Using warm compresses on the lower abdomen to alleviate pain.
- Paying attention to personal hygiene and changing diapers frequently.
- Offering natural drinks like lukewarm water or a small amount of safe herbs after consulting a doctor.
- Making the child urinate immediately upon feeling the need without delay.
Treatment of urinary tract infection in children
The recognized treatment regimen for urinary tract infection in children:
- Prescribing a suitable antibiotic after urine analysis to identify the type of bacteria.
- Continuing treatment for the entire duration specified by the doctor even if symptoms disappear.
- In severe cases,the child may need intensive follow-up or intravenous treatment.
- Conducting a follow-up examination to ensure complete elimination of the infection.
Daily habits to prevent urinary tract infection in children
Some habits recommended to be followed during the day:
- Offering water to the child throughout the day.
- Teaching the child correct hygiene habits after using the bathroom.
- Choosing cotton and loose underwear.
- Avoiding constipation as it increases the likelihood of urinary tract infection in children.
- Monitoring the child if they suffer from repeated infections for additional evaluation.
The effect of food on urinary tract infection in children
Proper nutrition has a significant factor in treating urinary tract infection in children:
- Eating water-rich fruits like watermelon and orange helps improve hydration.
- Reducing salty foods decreases urinary tract irritation.
- Increasing vegetables and fiber to reduce constipation associated with increased infection.
- Encouraging the child to eat yogurt to promote the health of beneficial bacteria in the body.
When should a doctor be visited?
If these symptoms continue to appear, a doctor should be visited:
- Continued high temperature for more than two days.
- Severe pain during urination or the appearance of blood in the urine.
- The child's refusal to drink fluids.
- Repeated urinary tract infection in children more than once within a few months.
Frequently asked questions about urinary tract infection in children
Can the infection be treated without antibiotics?
Treatment of urinary tract infection in children primarily depends on appropriate antibiotics.
Can the infection return again?
Yes, it may recur, especially with low water intake or poor hygiene, so the child should be monitored.
Does the infection cause kidney problems?
If left untreated, it may affect the kidneys, so early intervention is necessary.
Article Summary
Urinary tract infection in children is a common condition that requires quick attention to avoid any complications. Treatment depends on early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotics, alongside home steps like drinking fluids and improving hygiene.
Adherence to healthy daily habits helps reduce the chances of recurring urinary tract infection in children and maintains the health of the child's urinary system.