Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children are common, but recurrent infections or those that do not respond to treatment may indicate an underlying condition. In such cases, consulting a Pediatric Urologist like Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran can be crucial for accurate diagnosis and specialized care to prevent long-term complications such as kidney damage.

How Common Are UTIs in Children?

UTIs are frequent in children, with varying risks for boys and girls. Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran, a Consultant Pediatric Urologist, notes that male infants, especially those who are uncircumcised, face a higher risk of UTIs. However, after the first year of life, girls are more susceptible due to their shorter urethra, which facilitates the entry of bacteria into the urinary tract.

Signs and Symptoms of UTIs in Children

UTIs in children can present differently depending on their age. Recognizing the symptoms early is key to timely treatment.

• In infants, UTIs may be difficult to detect but could include:

  • Persistent fever

  • Unexplained irritability

  • Difficulty feeding

  • Vomiting

• In older children, symptoms are more pronounced and may include:

  • Pain or burning sensation during urination

  • Frequent and urgent need to urinate

  • Lower abdominal pain or discomfort

  • Cloudy, foul-smelling urine

  • High fever (may indicate kidney involvement)

If a fever accompanies these symptoms, especially with back pain or a persistent fever, it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention to prevent complications like kidney infection.

Diagnosing and Treating UTIs in Children

When a child exhibits symptoms of a UTI, urinalysis and urine cultures are commonly performed to confirm the infection. Imaging tests, such as kidney ultrasounds or a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG), may be necessary to check for structural abnormalities in the urinary tract.

Treatment typically involves oral antibiotics, and for severe infections, intravenous (IV) antibiotics may be needed in a hospital setting. If anatomical abnormalities like vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) are identified, surgical intervention may be required to prevent recurring infections and protect kidney health.

When Should You Consult a Pediatric Urologist?

Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran emphasizes that Pediatric Urologists should be consulted if your child experiences:

• Recurrent UTIs: Two or more infections in six months or three or more infections in a year

• High fever accompanying a UTI

• Infections that don’t respond to standard antibiotic treatments

• Symptoms suggesting kidney involvement, such as back pain or persistent fever

A Pediatric Urologist can conduct specialized tests like VCUG or renal scans to identify any anatomical issues contributing to recurrent infections.

Preventing UTIs in Children

Preventing UTIs is essential for your child’s health. Dr. Karunakaran recommends the following preventive measures:

• Promote good hygiene: Teach your child proper wiping techniques (front to back) to reduce bacterial entry into the urinary tract.

• Hydration: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids to help flush bacteria out of the urinary system.

• Address constipation: Constipation can interfere with bladder emptying, increasing the risk of UTIs.

• Circumcision for male infants: This can lower the risk of UTIs in male infants.

• Antibiotic prophylaxis: For children with conditions like VUR, low-dose antibiotics can help prevent infections.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If your child experiences symptoms of a UTI or has recurrent infections, it’s essential to seek professional medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing more serious complications, including kidney damage. Consulting a Pediatric Urologist like Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran ensures that your child receives the best possible care and that any underlying causes are promptly addressed.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran, Consultant Pediatric Urologist, for expert evaluation and treatment.