The most common cause of UTI in children less than 5 years old is bacteria in the bladder. Bacteria can enter the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body, and cause infection. The most common bacteria that causes UTI in children less than 5 years old is Escherichia coli (E. coli). Other bacteria can also cause UTI in children, including Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
Symptoms of UTI in Children Less than 5 Years Old
UTI in children less than 5 years old can cause symptoms such as pain or burning when urinating, increased frequency of urination, foul-smelling urine, fever, or abdominal pain. Other symptoms may also occur, depending on the severity of the infection.
Risk Factors for UTI in Children Less than 5 Years Old
There are several risk factors that can increase a child’s risk of developing a UTI, including not drinking enough fluids, not urinating often enough, having a weakened immune system, having a family history of UTI, or having a structural abnormality in the urinary tract.
Diagnosis and Treatment of UTI in Children Less than 5 Years Old
If a child is showing signs of a UTI, a doctor will likely do a physical exam and order a urine test to check for bacteria in the urine. If bacteria is present, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. It is important to finish the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor. In some cases, a doctor may also do imaging tests, such as a CT scan, to check for any structural abnormalities in the urinary tract.
Prevention of UTI in Children Less than 5 Years Old
The best way to prevent UTI in children less than 5 years old is to encourage them to drink plenty of fluids, urinate as soon as they feel the urge to, and practice good hygiene, such as wiping from front to back after using the bathroom. Parents should also be aware of any signs and symptoms of a UTI and contact a doctor if any are present.