Urine reflux is a condition called vesicoureteral reflux and occurs mostly in children. Urine normally flows down the ureters, tubes that carry urine, from the kidney to the bladder. People who have reflux may have a malformed ureter or a blockage that does not allow the fluid to flow in the right direction. Vesicoureteral reflux occurs when the urine goes back up to the kidneys. Urinary tract and kidney infections are a risk for people with this medical condition. Treatment varies, depending on the severity of the problem.
Step 1
Recognize the symptoms of urine reflux and bring your child to his pediatrician for an exam if he shows signs of the condition. Children who experience vesicoureteral reflux may wet the bed, feel a sudden urge to use the bathroom and may "dribble" instead of producing a steady stream of urine. Frequent urinary tract infections (UTI) are another symptom of reflux.
Step 2
Take antibiotics to clear up infections that are present in the urinary tract and to avoid the infection from spreading to the kidneys. Some people with urine reflux need to take antibiotics on a long-term basis to prevent infection.
Step 3
Undergo imaging testing to determine the severity or grade of the problem. The Children's Hospital in Boston explains that vesicoureteral reflux is graded from one to five, with one being least serious end of the spectrum. Tests that show how the bladder voids liquid can diagnose reflux and helps determine the type of treatment necessary.
Step 4
Take the "watchful waiting" approach to treating urine reflux. The American Academy of Family Physicians explains that in many cases no specific treatment is needed other than preventing infection. A child's ureter grows as she does, and the problem may be resolved on its own.
Step 5
Undergo surgery to correct an abnormal ureter if the reflux has not gotten better over time. The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC) states that ureter may need to be detached from the bladder and reattached differently to avoid the backup of urine.
Things You'll Need
- Antibiotics
- Imaging tests
- Surgery
