What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that affects any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are common in children, especially between the ages of 1 and 5.
Symptoms of a UTI in a Child
Common symptoms of a UTI in a child include frequent or painful urination, cloudy or bloody urine, fever, abdominal pain, and vomiting. If left untreated, a UTI can lead to more serious complications such as kidney damage.
Causes of a UTI in a Child
The most common cause of a UTI in a child is bacteria from the digestive tract entering the urinary tract. Other risk factors include a weakened immune system, a blockage in the urinary tract, and a lack of personal hygiene.
Diagnosis and Treatment of a UTI in a Child
A UTI in a child can be diagnosed through a physical examination, urine culture, and imaging tests. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and, in some cases, hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics.
How Common is a UTI in a Child?
UTIs are relatively common in children, with as many as 8 percent of girls and 2 percent of boys experiencing a UTI before the age of 5. However, the rates of UTIs in children tend to decline after the age of 5.