According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, urinary tract infections affect 3 percent of children annually and account for nearly 1 million pediatrician office visits. Signs of a UTI in young children are not always obvious and include restlessness, irritability and decreased urination. Older children demonstrate classic UTI symptoms, including pain on urination, frequent urge to urinate and lower abdominal pain. UTIs are serious and may lead to complications involving the kidney if left untreated. Antibiotics are often prescribed to fight UTIs, yet symptoms may be reduced with home treatments.
Fluids
Fluid consumption should increase to decrease the concentration of bacteria in the urine, reports FamilyDoctor.org. Encourage water and unsweetened fruit juices. Lemon slices may add flavor to water and make drinking the beverage more appealing. Caffeinated beverages such as cola and iced tea should not be given to children. According to MayoClinic.com, some controversy remains about whether cranberry juice is effective in treating UTIs. Some research suggests cranberry juice prevents bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder. In any case, cranberry juice increases hydration and helps flush the urinary system, aiding in recovery. The caffeine further irritates the urinary tract, causing the delay in recovery.
Pain Relief and Comfort
Hot water bottles or hot compresses placed on the lower abdominal area decrease pain associated with a UTI. The warm sensation allows muscle relaxation and may decrease discomfort when urinating. Children should wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as a loose t-shirt or pajamas. Tight or restrictive clothing causes additional pain and may feel uncomfortable.
Frequent Urination
A toileting schedule increases urination and prevents a child from holding contaminated urine in the urinary tract. Bringing the child to the restroom about every hour is encouraged. Parents or caregivers may implement a reward system to encourage urination. Girls should be assisted in wiping from front to back to discourage bacteria from entering the urethra.
