Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Children
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children often resolve quickly when treated early. The urinary tract produces and removes urine from the body, and infection can occur when bacteria enter this system. If a child experiences recurrent UTIs, further medical testing may be required to rule out underlying conditions.
In some cases, untreated urinary tract infections can spread into the bloodstream and cause sepsis, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Complications are more likely in premature infants and children who have blockages or abnormalities in urine flow.
Causes of Urinary Tract Infections
UTIs are most commonly caused by bacteria that normally live in the large intestine. These microorganisms can enter the urethra—the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body—and travel upward into the bladder or kidneys.
Poor hygiene, delayed diaper changes, constipation, or incomplete bladder emptying may increase the risk of infection in children.
Signs and Symptoms of UTIs in Children
Symptoms vary depending on the child’s age.
Infants and Young Children
Young children may not show classic urinary symptoms or be able to explain discomfort. Watch for:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Fussiness or irritability
- Reduced appetite
- Unusual or foul-smelling urine
Older Children
Older children may experience more typical UTI symptoms, including:
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Pain or burning during urination
- Accidental urine leakage or loss of bladder control
- Cloudy, pink, red, or foul-smelling urine
- Lower abdominal pain
- Flank pain felt below the ribs and above the waist
Management and Treatment
Urinary tract infections in children are treated with antibiotics, prescribed based on the child’s age, medical history, and the type of bacteria involved. It is essential that the full course of antibiotics is completed, even if symptoms improve early.
Encourage the child to drink plenty of fluids, which helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Follow-up care may be required if symptoms persist or if infections recur.
Important First Aid and Safety Note
This information is provided for educational and first aid awareness purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Any child with suspected urinary tract infection—especially infants or children with fever—should be evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
Early recognition of infection symptoms and knowing when to seek medical attention is an important component of pediatric first aid education. St. Mark James Training, Canada’s largest 100% Canadian-owned and operated first aid and CPR training provider, offers first aid and CPR training in Canada that includes infection awareness, child illness recognition, and emergency response skills.