Urinary tract infections in children: an abnormality that should not overlook
Urinary tract infection (UTI) in children is found in 7 percent of children. Especially infants and young children under 2 years old. In boys who have not circumcise, the chance of getting a UTI is 10 times higher than in boys who have circumcise. In children aged 2-5 years, the rate of UTI is higher in girls than in boys. This disease can affect the urinary tract system, from the ureters, kidneys, bladder and urethra. If there is a urinary tract infection repeatedly, it will result in kidney failure quickly in the future.
Causes of urinary tract infections in children
It is divide into 2 factors:
- Structural abnormalities of the urinary tract, such as urinary reflux, are common, especially in young children. This reflux of urine can carry bacteria up into the kidneys, leading to an upper urinary tract infection.
- Abnormal bladder function, such as urinary retention, especially in school-aged girls, inadequate fluid intake, children with chronic constipation, etc.
Symptoms of urinary tract infection
Urinary tract infections in children also divide into upper and lower urinary tract infections, depending on the location of the urinary tract structures. Symptoms depend on the age of the child.
Newborns, symptoms may include jaundice, lethargy, and crying.
Young children, symptoms often include high fever, diarrhea, restlessness, or decreased appetite.
In older children who can tell the symptoms, in addition to high fever, there may be back pain, painful urination, incomplete urination, frequent urination, inability to hold urine, and bed-wetting.
Guidelines for the treatment of urinary tract infections in children
Urine examination and culture are use. Antibiotics https://ufabet999.app given for 7-14 days in young children. If the infection is in the lower urinary tract, oral antibiotics can given for 3-5 days.
How to prevent your child from getting a urinary tract infection
- Teach children not to hold urine and to urinate completely.
- Clean properly after urinating by wiping from front to back. Do not wipe backwards because this can bring germs from the anus into the urinary tract.
- Practice regular bowel movements to prevent constipation.
- Drink enough water and eat vegetables and fruits regularly.