UTIs are a common but often misunderstood disease in children. The infection starts in the toilet pipe. Due to the infection in the kidneys, bacteria enter the urethra and cause infection. Its symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting and loss of appetite. Complications of UTI can be avoided if it is detected in time and treated properly. This will make them recover quickly. Parents who know the risk factors can act accordingly to ensure that they treat the child as early as possible.
What causes UTI in children?
What causes UTI in children? When we spoke to Dr Antony Robert C, Senior Consultant – Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli, he said that it forms when harmful bacteria travel from the urethra to the bladder and sometimes even to the kidneys. These bacteria live in the intestine and are completely harmless until they enter the urinary tract. The most common culprit is Escherichia coli (E. coli). Other microorganisms responsible for UTI include Klebsiella, Proteus, Enterococcus and Pseudomonas species.
Urine is sterile and free of bacteria
However, there are certain factors that put children at risk for infection. Some preventive practices include: Hydration: Fluid intake promotes flushing out bacteria from the urinary system by urinating frequently. Teach proper hygiene. Girls should be taught to wipe from front to back after urination and defecation to prevent abnormal anal flora from entering the urethra. Avoid constipation: Constipation can cause infection, especially in young children. Bowel movements should be encouraged.
Let the child empty the bladder completely: Make sure your child empties his bladder completely to avoid storing bacteria.Diagnosis of UTI in a ChildTo ascertain the diagnosis of UTI, the doctor will perform a physical examination, review the symptoms and assess the medical history. For this, the doctor will perform a urine test, also known as urinalysis, which is a laboratory test done to check for bacteria and infection indicators such as white blood cells and red blood cells in the urine. A urine culture will be conducted to establish the exact causative bacteria, which will facilitate treatment.UTI in children may be a sign of some underlying congenital urinary tract anomalies that predispose the child to infections.
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UTI in children
However, most pediatric UTIs are not caused by a structural anomaly and do not require surgical intervention. Surgical evaluation is usually reserved for recurrent febrile UTIs, male children with UTIs, or infections with an atypical presentation. It is very important to detect and treat such anomalies to prevent recurrent UTIs and potential long-term damage to the kidneys. Key investigations to be recommended by your pediatrician.
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Kidney ultrasound: It is often the first imaging test to check for structural abnormalities, such as hydronephrosis or another physical abnormality.
Micturating Cystourethrogram (MCUG): Dye is used with X-rays to see whether urine flows backwards from the bladder into the kidneys, which enables a more definitive diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Magnetic resonance urography: This provides a detailed and accurate view of the urinary tract and is diagnostic for complex anomalies. Nuclear medicine scan: Assessment of kidney function. Detection of scarring from recurrent infections.
Antibiotics: This is the mainstay of treatment to eliminate the infection. The type and course of antibiotics depends on the urine culture. Pain relief: Medications to manage their pain/discomfort and local methods to ensure they are comfortable.
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