What is a urinary tract infection?  

It is a common problem among children of all ages. Bacteria (less commonly viruses or fungi) cause inflammation in the urinary tract. Inflammation of the kidneys, or the upper urinary tract, is called pyelonephritis. Inflammation of the bladder and urethra is called lower urinary tract inflammation. 

How does the infection occur? 

Under favorable conditions, the pathogen enters the urinary system as ascending route – through the urethra, bladder and ureters to the kidneys. There is a risk of blood-borne infection in newborns and infants. Escherichia coli bacteria, which inhabits our digestive tract, is responsible for most cases of urinary tract infections. Girls get sick more often, mainly due to the anatomical proximity of the anus and urethra. 

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?  

It depends on the age of the child. In infants, symptoms may be non-specific, such as vomiting, unexplained fever, and anorexia. Sometimes the parent notices  a bad smell during diaper change. Older children will most often complain of painful urination, burning sensation when peeing, and frequent urination. They may experience involuntary urination (enuresis), stomach pain and even fever. 

What should I do if I suspect my child has a urinary tract infection? 

First of all, you need to test the urine! Start with a general urine test that assesses specific gravity, color, pH, protein, leukocytes, bacteria, erythrocytes, or other abnormal components. In some cases, urine culture is also needed – it’s the cultivation of bacteria from a sterile sample. 

My child has bacteria in the urine test, does this mean it has a urinary tract infection?  

Definitely not! Often there are false abnormal urine tests. It must be remembered that proper hygiene and proper collection of the midstream urine for examination is very important. This is not always the case. Therefore, the interpretation of the result should be left to the doctor. 

How is urinary tract infection treated?

The method of treatment is determined by the location of the inflammatory process (upper or lower urinary tract), medical interview and physical examination, as well as the results of additional tests (urine and sometimes blood tests). Acute inflammation of the upper urinary tract is a serious disease that requires antibiotic therapy, sometimes hospitalization is necessary. In the case of the lower urinary tract, disinfectants and antibacterial preparations are used orally or topically. Adequate fluid intake and daily hygiene are very important. 

My child has a recurring problem. Is it normal?  

Recurrences of urinary tract infections in children may indicate the presence of a defect in the urinary tract or an abnormal bladder function. Then, diagnostics should be extended to include ultrasound of the abdominal cavity or other additional imaging tests.  

Author: Agnes