Urinary Tract Infection:
The urinary tract consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Inflammation of the urinary tract occurs when bacteria enter the urethra, infecting the urinary system.
Types of UTI:
- Upper urinary tract infection: if the infection is in the kidneys or an infection in the ureter.
- Lower urinary tract infection: If the infection is in the bladder or urethra.
Reasons for UTI:
Most UTIs in children are caused by bacteria entering the urethra.
Risk factors:
- Sex where girls are more at risk because their urethra is shorter and closer than the rectum.
- The young age, as male children under the age of one year and females under the age of four years are more susceptible to urinary tract infection.
- Males who have not been circumcised are 4-10 times more likely to develop a urinary tract infection than circumcised boys.
- Children who suffer from constipation or failure in the work of the urinary bladder.
- Those who suffer from incomplete parts of the bladder before childbirth.
- A previous urinary tract infection.
Symptoms:
Older children have symptoms:
- Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
- Frequent need to urinate.
- Pain in the lower abdomen or in the back on both sides.
- A rise in temperature
Younger children:
- Fever (maybe the only symptom).
- Irritability and emotion.
When should you see a doctor:
- If the child has an unexplained high body temperature
- If the child suffers from back or abdominal pain
- If the child suffers from pain when urinating
Treatment:
Urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria and are treated with antibiotics. The antibiotic depends on the age of the child and the type and resistance of the bacteria that caused the UTI.
Protection:
- Breastfeeding helps boost the immune system of babies, especially in the first six months.
- Teaching girls to wipe from front to back.
- Ensure that children wear cotton underwear.
- Avoid using scented soap.
- Drink enough water.
- The doctor may prescribe an antibiotic as a preventative daily small dose for children who suffer from frequent urinary tract infections, and this lasts for a period of 6 months to a year.