Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are one of the most common childhood infections, especially in infants and toddlers. A UTI happens when bacteria enter the urinary tract, affecting the bladder (cystitis), kidneys (pyelonephritis), or urethra (urethritis). Recurrent UTIs can cause long-term damage to a child’s kidneys, bladder, or urinary system if left untreated — especially in children with underlying structural issues like vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) or neurogenic bladder.
This is why timely consultation with a pediatric urologist in Nagpur is essential to safeguard your child’s urinary and kidney health.
What Causes UTIs in Children?
- Bacterial infections, commonly E. coli, that enter through the urethra
- Poor toilet hygiene or wiping from back to front
- Holding urine for too long
- Bubble baths, tight clothes, or irritants near the genitals
- Urinary tract anomalies such as:
- VUR (urine backflow to kidneys)
- Obstructive uropathy
- Neurogenic bladder
- Child nephrolithiasis (kidney stones)
Symptoms of UTI in Children
Symptoms can vary with age:
In Infants
- High-grade fever without a source
- Poor feeding
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Foul-smelling urine
- Irritability or lethargy
In Older Children
- Pain or burning during urination (dysuria)
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Bedwetting or daytime wetting after toilet training
- Foul-smelling, cloudy, or bloody urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back
- Child fever and chills (may indicate a kidney infection)
Why Pediatric UTIs Are Dangerous If Ignored
Recurrent or untreated UTIs may lead to:
- Permanent kidney damage
- Hydronephrosis (swelling of kidneys)
- Renal scarring
- Pediatric nephrolithiasis
- High blood pressure later in life
- Chronic bladder dysfunction or incontinence
This is why any UTI in a child must be evaluated in depth, not just treated symptomatically.
Diagnosis of UTI in Children
Pediatric urology teams typically use:
- Urine routine and culture – confirms bacterial infection
- Ultrasound KUB – detects kidney swelling, bladder issues, stones
- MCUG (Micturating Cystourethrogram) – detects VUR or blockage
- DMSA Scan – to check for kidney scarring
- Urodynamic testing – if neurogenic bladder or voiding dysfunction is suspected
Treatment of Pediatric UTI
Antibiotics
- Prescribed based on culture results
- Early treatment prevents kidney damage
- Complete the full course even if symptoms improve
Supportive Care
- Increased fluid intake
- Cranberry extract (in selected cases)
- Probiotics to maintain urinary flora
Long-Term Management
- For recurrent UTIs:
- Low-dose daily antibiotics (prophylaxis)
- Behavioral therapy for bedwetting or dysfunctional voiding
- Treatment of underlying problems like VUR, bladder dysfunction, or stones
When to Consult a Pediatric Urologist
Contact a pediatric urology clinic if your child has:
- More than 2 UTIs in 6 months
- Persistent bedwetting or daytime wetting
- Foul-smelling urine despite antibiotics
- Known congenital abnormalities or child nephrolithiasis
- Poor urinary stream, dribbling, or signs of obstruction
- History of spina bifida, neurogenic bladder, or spinal cord injury
Why Choose a Pediatric Urology Clinic for UTI Care?
A specialized pediatric urology clinic offers:
- Early detection of structural causes behind UTI
- Detailed imaging, urodynamic studies, and urine testing
- Education on hygiene, toilet habits, and prevention
- Long-term monitoring for bedwetting, hydronephrosis, or renal scarring
- Combined care with pediatric nephrologists when kidneys are affected
A Urinary Tract Infection in a child is not just a minor infection — it could be a sign of deeper structural or neurological problems. Early and expert care protects your child’s kidneys, prevents long-term damage, and restores healthy bladder function.
If your child suffers from bedwetting, foul-smelling urine, frequent UTIs, or any urinary symptoms, consult Dr. Sadashiv Bhole, Nagpur’s most trusted pediatric urologist, for accurate diagnosis and compassionate care.
