Urine Tract Infection (UTI) in Children: A Simple Guide for Parents

Urine Tract Infection (UTI) in Children: A Simple Guide for Parents

Hello, dear parents. I am Dr. Mayur Kumar Goyal, your child specialist in Ajmer. At MAYUR CHILD CARE CENTER, I often meet worried parents whose children are suffering from a Urine Tract Infection, or UTI.

It can be confusing when a young child has a fever or seems uncomfortable but can't tell you where it hurts. I understand your concern. This guide will help you understand what a UTI is and what you can do.

What is a Urine Tract Infection (UTI)?

A UTI is an infection in any part of the system that handles our urine (pee). This includes the kidneys, the tubes connecting them (ureters), the bladder, and the tube that passes urine out of the body (urethra). It happens when germs, usually bacteria, get into this system and cause an infection.

Why Do Children Get UTIs?

Germs from the skin or stool can sometimes find their way into the urinary tract. This is more common in girls because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus. In babies, wearing a soiled diaper for too long can also sometimes increase the risk.

How to Spot a UTI: Important Signs for Parents

It can be tricky, especially with young children who can't talk. Please look for these signs:

• Fever: Often the only sign in a baby, especially if it has no clear cause like a cold or cough.
• Pain or Burning: An older child may complain of pain or a burning feeling when they urinate.
• Stomach Pain or Discomfort: Your child may have pain in the lower belly or back.
• Urgent Need to Go: They may feel a sudden, strong need to urinate, often passing only a few drops.
• Going Too Often: Needing to urinate much more often than usual.
• Bedwetting: A child who is usually dry at night might start wetting the bed again.
• Foul-Smelling or Cloudy Urine: The urine may look cloudy or smell bad.
• Being Fussy: Babies might be unusually irritable, cry during nappy changes, or feed poorly.

Dr. Mayur's Advice: What to Do If You Suspect a UTI

If you notice any of the signs above, here is what you should do:

1. See a Doctor: The most important step is to bring your child to the clinic. UTIs need proper medical diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.
2. Get a Urine Test: We will need a small sample of your child's urine to confirm the infection. I will guide you on how to collect it correctly.
3. Give the Full Course of Medicine: If your child is prescribed antibiotics, it is very important to finish the entire course, even if they start feeling better. This ensures the infection is completely gone.
4. Offer Plenty of Fluids: Encourage your child to drink more water. This helps flush out the bacteria from their system.

When You Must Call Your Child Doctor in Ajmer

Please do not wait if you see any of the following signs. Call me immediately.

• Your baby under 3 months has a fever.
• Your child has a high fever with chills.
• They have severe pain in the back or stomach.
• They are vomiting and cannot keep medicine down.
• They seem very weak, drowsy, or difficult to wake up.

For urgent cases, don't hesitate to visit our emergency services.

What You Should Avoid Doing

• Do not give leftover antibiotics from an old illness.
• Do not ignore the symptoms, thinking they will go away on their own.
• Do not give sugary drinks or cola; water is the best choice.

My Final Words to You

Dear parents, a UTI is a common childhood illness that can be treated effectively. The key is to notice the signs early and get the right treatment. As always, trust your instincts. You know your child best. If you feel something is wrong, please reach out. A quick check-up can give you peace of mind and get your child back to good health.

My door and phone are always open for you. Let's work together to keep your little ones healthy and happy.

With warm regards,

Dr. Mayur Kumar Goyal
Consultant Pediatrician & Neonatologist

My Clinic in Ajmer:

MAYUR CHILD CARE CENTER

• Near Lions Club, Vaishali Nagar, Ajmer
• Monday to Saturday: 9 AM - 12:30 PM and 5 PM - 8:30 PM
• Sunday: 10 AM - 2 PM

PARAS UROLOGY & MULTISPECIALITY

• Monday to Saturday: 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
• Sunday: Closed

📞 Call for Appointment: +91 90249 88677, +91 89559 66990

🌐 Website: https://drmayurkumargoyal.com/

For more helpful articles on child health, check out our blog page with topics like diarrhoea in children and seasonal flu in children.