“Children can get UTI when the bacteria from the stools or skin surrounding the urethra enters the urinary tract. It can cause infection which can be localised to the urethra and bladder (the lowermost part of the urinary tract), or in some cases, the infection can ascend all the way up the tract to involve the kidneys, especially in children with a condition called vesicoureteral reflux (VUR),” explains Dr Shalini Chico, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician, Fortis Hospital, Richmond Road, Bangalore who says with timely detection and treatment with appropriate antibiotics, the complications can be minimised. “In infants with UTI and children with recurrent infections, your doctor may suggest ultrasound scans and special tests check on the condition of the kidneys and to rule out VUR,” she adds.

The typical symptoms of UTI like burning sensation while passing urine, increased frequency of passing urine or dribbling, lower back pain, and abdominal pain, can be seen in older children, however, in infants and toddlers, that may not be the case and one must keep a sharp look out for uncommon signs.

Here are a few red flags to watch out for and report to the pediatrician when noticed:

Inability to gain weight: This is a common sign in infants and toddlers which needs to be evaluated. In an otherwise healthy child with no signs of deficiency, a poor weight gain that may or may not is associated with loss of appetite needs to be evaluated. It has been seen that UTI if picked up and treated at this stage, results in good weight gain in the months following treatment.

Loose stools and vomiting: Need not always be a symptom of a stomach bug. Sometimes loose stools, especially if associated with fever and vomiting needs to be evaluated, if no other cause can be identified.

Fever: High-grade fever, lasting for more than 48hrs especially associated with chills, will have to be evaluated.

Bedwetting: For an older child who is toilet trained, a sudden step back to nocturnal bedwetting can be a red flag.

Rash: A rash in the genital area which may or may not be associated with fever, associated with any of the above symptoms should be always investigated, especially if associated with foul-smelling or cloudy-looking urine.

How Does One Minimise The Risk Of UTI?

Maintaining hygienic practices can minimise the risk of infection like:

Frequent changing of diapers/nappies in infants.

Washing from front to back to ensure that stool does not enter the urinary tract;  this practice is exceptionally important in girl children.

In older school-going children, ensure the child stays well hydrated, and empties the bladder at regular intervals.

Holding in urine due to reluctance to use the toilets at schools or while travel, and constipation can both predispose to UTIs.

The diagnosis of a urinary tract infection is crucial for the selection of appropriate medications. A culture should be collected in a sterile manner after washing the genital region well. n certain situations, your physician may recommend a catheterized sample for an accurate result. Antibiotics are administered for 7 to 14 days, based on the culture, the clinical condition, and the severity of the infection. In order to minimise recurrence and complications of UTIs, it is essential to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor.

Also Read: Expert Explains Symptoms Of UTI In Children, Its Treatment And Prevention 

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