Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are not just confined to adults; they can also affect children, albeit with some differences in presentation and management. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and risk factors associated with UTIs in children is crucial for timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. It’s important that you understand when your child might be dealing with a UTI so that you can help them get the treatment they need to ease their pain. Dr. Jeffrey Mantia at Grandville Pediatrics in Grandville, MI, can explain urinary tract infections and everything you may need to know about them. 

Understanding Urinary Tract Infections 

Like in adults, UTIs in children are primarily caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and causing an infection. In infants and young children, UTIs may occur due to factors such as incomplete bladder emptying, constipation, or congenital urinary tract abnormalities. In older children, UTIs are often associated with poor bathroom hygiene, holding urine for extended periods, or structural abnormalities in the urinary tract. 

Symptoms will depend on the child and their age but can include: 

• Frequent urination 
• Urgency to urinate 
• Pain or burning while urinating 
• Foul-smelling urine 
• Abdominal pain or discomfort 

Some factors could increase your child’s risk of dealing with a urinary tract infection. This could include being female, dealing with anatomic abnormalities, constipation, or conditions that affect bladder function.  

Diagnosing urinary tract infections in children typically involves several tests from their pediatrician in Grandville, MI. This could include a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and laboratory tests, such as urinalysis and urine culture, to confirm the presence of bacteria in the urinary tract. Treatment for childhood UTIs usually consists of antibiotic therapy tailored to the specific bacteria causing the infection.  

Contact Our Pediatrician Today 

Make sure you’re able to identify when your child might be dealing with a UTI. Contact Dr. Jeffrey Mantia at Grandville Pediatrics in Grandville, MI, to learn about urinary tract infections and what to do when your child has one. 

Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (616) 538-2410.