Kids & Bladder Infections: What to Know | Tennessee Valley Urology Center

While bladder infections are often thought of as something that primarily affects adult women, children can also experience them from time to time.

In fact, about 8% of girls and 2% of boys will experience a urinary tract infection, also known as a UTI, by the time they reach age 5.

Our team at Tennessee Valley Urology Center wants you to know the signs to look for in your child so that you can seek medical attention if a UTI occurs.

What Is a Bladder Infection?

Bladder infections—in particular UTIs—occur when germs infiltrate the bladder, urinary tract and/or the kidneys. It is important for symptoms to be treated as soon as possible so that further infection to the kidneys is prevented.

Signs of a bladder infection in children include:

  • Bedwetting
  • Burning sensation when urinating
  • Fever
  • Foul-smelling, cloudy or blood-tinged urine
  • Frequent urination
  • Fussiness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Pain below the child’s belly button
  • Pain when the child tries to go to bathroom
  • Vomiting

Although bladder infections can be caused by a number of things, in children, bladder infections are most often caused by constipation, incomplete bladder emptying and holding urine.

Therefore, try to teach your child the importance of going to the bathroom when the need arises and making sure he or she is fully done before leaving the bathroom.

How to Treat a UTI

If you believe your child may have a bladder infection, talk with your child’s doctor. He or she may recommend coming in for a visit to determine whether an actual infection is present and whether an antibiotic is needed.

You can also take steps to alleviate your child’s discomfort at home. Ensure he or she is drinking plenty of fluids, as well as following good bathroom habits and not wearing tight clothing. You also want to make sure your child is having regular bowel movements, as constipation can block urine and fuel a bladder infection.

Do you think your child might be suffering from a bladder infection? Our team at Tennessee Valley Urology Center is here to help! Give us a call today.