Urinary tract infections are easy to recognize in adults because of burning or pain while urinating, but the symptoms in a toddler can be more difficult to identify. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, about 7 percent of girls and around 2 percent of boys develop a urinary tract infection before age 6. Urinary tract infections can develop into serious complications if not evaluated and treated. A pediatrician should evaluate a child exhibiting signs and symptoms of an urinary tract infection.
Background
The urinary tract is the system in the human body that stores and removes liquid waste. It consists of the kidneys, ureter tubes, bladder and urethra. According to KidsHealth.org, infections can transpire anywhere in the tract but are found more commonly in the lower areas, such as the bladder or urethra. The urinary tract begins in the lower back and continues into the pelvis, leading to the genitals. Most symptoms of a urinary tract infection in toddlers will cause pain or discomfort in this general area.
Types
DrGreene.com notes that abdominal pain, blood in the urine, tenderness around the bladder, a fever, increased urination, pain during urination and the inability to control urine are all symptoms of a urinary tract infection in toddlers. The toddler may wet the bed or demonstrate that he needs to urinate but not have much urine to expel. In younger toddlers, the only symptoms of a urinary tract infection may be fussiness and a fever.
Treatment
A pediatrician will diagnose and treat most urinary tract infection symptoms in toddlers with oral antibiotics, according to KidsHealth.org. Antibiotics work by killing the harmful bacteria in the urinary tract. Parents may see the symptoms subside within the first two days of the antibiotic treatment but should use the complete amount prescribed. Ending an antibiotic routine early could result in the infection returning. If the toddler shows signs of physical discomfort, a doctor may prescrbie a drug that numbs the urinary lining.
Severe Symptoms
Hospitalization may occur if a toddler demonstrates severe symptoms such as a high fever, is younger than 6 months or appears to be dehydrated from vomiting. If a toddler appears ill, is lethargic or is unable to keep fluids in the stomach, he should see a medical professional immediately. In rare cases, infection from the urinary tract could enter the bloodstream, leading to complications.
Prevention
Preventing urinary tract infection symptoms in toddlers begins with good hygiene, DrGreene.com explains. Parents of toddlers still in diapers should wipe from front to back to avoid any stool from entering the genital area. If the toddler is potty trained, he must be able to effectively wipe himself from front to back. Remind him to use the bathroom often to prevent the urine from being held too long.
