Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that affects organs in the urinary system. These include the kidneys, ureters, urethra, and bladder. Urinary tract infections are more common in women. Not only adults, UTIs can also occur in children and moms. UTI in children can be recognized by some typical symptoms. What are the signs? Let's discuss the symptoms and how to prevent UTI in children.
Causes of UTI in Children
UTI in children can be caused by E.coli bacterial infection in the urinary tract. The bacteria move from the skin area to around the anus and genitals, and then to the child's urinary tract. As mentioned earlier, UTIs in children are more common in girls than in boys. That's why it's important to keep the environment clean. The risk of UTIs also increases in children if the way to clean the vital organs is wrong.
In addition, moms are also required to know other causes that can trigger UTIs in children. including:
Rarely change diapers
For moms who have babies or toddlers who still use diapers, you should pay attention to the frequency of changing dirty and wet diapers. Diapers that are fully filled with urine and feces fluids must be changed regularly. Because the condition of dirty diapers can encourage the growth of bacteria that cause this disease.
Lack of drinking
Lack of drinking or dehydration in children can also cause UTIs. Because the kidneys cannot work optimally due to lack of body fluids. As we know, the kidneys are the body's organs that function to filter out food waste, drinks and toxic substances. Little ones who don't drink enough can bring in bacteria and develop urinary tract infections.
Boys have not been circumcised
Although the risk of UTI in children is more susceptible to girls, it does not mean that boys cannot suffer from this disease. Uncircumcised boys have a 4-10 times higher risk of UTIs. Based on research from McGill University, it is known that bacteria can hide and form under the foreskin and enter the urinary tract.
Types and Symptoms of UTIs that must be Known
Urinary tract infections are divided into two types, namely upper UTI and lower UTI. For the severity depends on the health condition of each person. The following is an explanation of upper UTI and lower UTI:
1. Upper Urinary Tract Infection
Upper UTI involves infection of the upper parts of the urinary tract, namely the kidneys and ureters (the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder). This UTI is more serious as it can potentially spread to the kidneys and cause a condition called pyelonephritis (kidney infection). If not treated quickly, this infection can lead to serious complications such as kidney damage or the spread of infection into the bloodstream, which is potentially life-threatening.
Upper UTI symptoms:
- Pain in the upper back or side of the body (low back pain)
- High fever and chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Cloudy or bloody urine
2. Lower Urinary Tract Infection
Lower UTIs involve infections in the lower parts of the urinary tract, namely the bladder and urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). Bladder infections are called cystitis, and urethral infections are called urethritis. Lower UTIs are more common and usually not very serious if treated promptly. However, these infections can still cause significant discomfort.
Symptoms of lower UTI:
- Frequent urge to urinate, even if only a small amount of urine is passed
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Cloudy, strong-smelling or bloody urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen (above the bladder)
- Discomfort in the pelvic area
How to Prevent UTI in Children
It's better to prevent than treat, right moms? Well, to prevent UTI in children some easy steps can be done at home:
- Properly clean the child's genital area with clean water after urinating and defecating.
- Moms can teach toilet training as early as possible to the child.
- Choose cotton and loose-fitting material for your child's pants.
- Meet your child's drinking water needs.
- Avoid caffeinated drinks and sodas that can irritate the bladder.
Treating UTI in Children Appropriately
UTI in children cannot get better by itself. The Little One with a urinary tract infection needs treatment from a doctor. This disease is easily treatable and will usually recover within a week or so. If your little one has shown symptoms of UTI then moms should immediately take him to the doctor. Late treatment can be fatal, triggering kidney damage.
Knowing what causes UTI in children, we as parents can prevent our little ones from contracting the disease. Don't hesitate to take your little one to the doctor if they show symptoms of UTI. (Aq / MKK)
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