Once a child is toilet trained, he may have episodes of frequent urination. This is annoying for both the child and the parent or caregiver. A child who is urinating frequently should be instructed to try to completely empty her bladder each time she visits the bathroom. In some cases, this is all that is needed to correct a bad habit. If frequent urination persists, however, or if there are symptoms of other illnesses, the child will need to see his doctor for further testing.
Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, can cause frequent urination in children. Other symptoms include fever, painful urination, burning while urinating, the feeling that the bladder is not completely empty and abdominal pain. Your child's doctor will take a urine sample to test for a urinary tract infection. Antibiotics are usually necessary to treat a UTI.
Vulvovaginitis
Young girls can suffer from an inflammation of the skin and tissues around the urethra and vagina. This can lead to burning while urinating as well as frequent urination. If your child has symptoms of vulvovaginitis, she should avoid taking bubble baths and should be careful to wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
Pollakiuria
Pollakiuria, also known as Extraordinary Daytime Urinary Frequency Syndrome, is not a disorder or illness that requires treatment. It can be caused by stress or other unknown factors. Children with pollakiuria may urinate up to 30 times per day, but they do not have any other symptoms of infection, irritation or a systemic illness.
Diabetes
Diabetes is an disease that causes the body to not produce appropriate amounts of insulin. In children, one of the most significant symptoms is excessive thirst and frequently passing of large amounts of urine. Other symptoms include weight loss, extreme hunger, irritability and uncharacteristic fatigue. Diabetes is a serious illness; if you suspect your child is affected, contact his doctor right away.
