Caregivers who notice that the child remains irritable and suffer from abdominal pain and fevers should discuss the symptoms with the best urologist in Karachi. The specialist will conduct relevant tests to diagnose the illness and provide treatment accordingly.
Children are at a higher risk of suffering from UTIs due to the growth of bacteria in the urethra. It can either affect the kidneys or the bladder. When the infection affects the kidneys, it is known as pyelonephritis. Also, when the infection hinders the functioning of the bladder, it is known as cystitis. It is essential to seek medical attention as soon as the caregivers notice symptoms correlating to infection to avoid damage to the organs and related complications.
The caregivers can notice the following symptoms in the child suffering from UTIs:
- The child remains inactive due to high or low-grade fever.
- The child loses interest in food that affects their physical health and changes their body weight.
- The child suffers from nausea and vomiting.
- The child remains irritable most of the time.
- There is the presence of blood in the urine.
- The child suffers from pain in the abdominal region that affects their performance.
- The smell of the urine is unusual and appears to be foamy.
- The child suffers from weakness and fatigue most of the time.
- The child complains of pain while urinating/ They may also complain of a burning sensation while excreting urine, which causes pain, discomfort, and anxiety.
The risk factors for UTIs in children include:
- Children with a structural deformity are at a higher risk of contracting infections and related complications. Also, if there is a blockage in the urinary tract, then the child is prone to suffer from infections, which may lead to permanent damage to the organs.
- The abnormal functioning of the urinary tract due to a prior medical condition can increase the chances of contracting infections.
- Vesicoureteral reflux is a birth defect in which there is an abnormal backflow of the urine that can cause infection in the urinary tract.
- Children who take bubble baths and wear tight clothes are at a higher risk of contracting infections.
- Children with poor hygiene are more likely to suffer from physical health illnesses, including UTIs. Hence, it is essential for the caregivers to make sure they help the child learn habits to enhance their hygiene.
The preventive measures that help reduce the chances of suffering UTIs and related complications include:
- Girls should not take bubble baths as they are at a high risk of letting the bacteria enter the urethra and cause infection.
- Caregivers should monitor the fluid intake of the child and make sure they consume organic food to strengthen the immune system and reduce the chances of contracting infections.
- Caregivers should teach the child the proper way of using the toilet to reduce the chances of UTIs and related complications.
The medications that help the child suffering from UTIs are:
- Use of Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics will fight the bacteria by providing relief from the burning sensation and fever.
- Use of Painkillers: The medications help manage the pain and help the child function adequately.
The caregivers should take their child to the hospital if:
- The child is six months old and suffering from fever.
- The urine indicates the presence of blood.
- The child is continuously vomiting and dehydrated.
- The child cannot take oral antibiotics due to unconsciousness.
Caregivers who notice that their child is suffering from the symptoms of UTI and the medications are proven ineffective must rush to a specialist at Reliance Hospital. A competent and reliable doctor will provide guidance regarding the most effective and latest treatment. The medical intervention will improve the physical health of the child and help in smooth recovery without further complications.