Most children experience a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point in their childhood. It is generally not a serious condition but in most cases, it does require a course of antibiotics to clear the bacteria causing the infection.
If your child is experiencing symptoms of a UTI and possibly requires urgent care, please contact Night Lite Pediatrics directly for assistance. We offer pediatric urinary tract treatment to children living and visiting in the state of Florida. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions regarding the condition, diagnosis, or for available treatment options.
What is a pediatric urinary tract infection?
A UTI is a bacterial infection of the urinary tract, comprising the kidneys, ureters connecting the kidneys to the bladder, and the urethra where urine is expelled, in younger children. Bacteria can enter the urinary tract through the skin around the rectum and genitals, or, less commonly, through the bloodstream from any part of the body.
Common causes of pediatric urinary tract infections
Urine is typically composed of water, salts, and waste products and is free of germs such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, when these germs enter the urethra, travel up the bladder, ureters, and kidneys and begin to multiply, an infection can occur.
Most infections are caused by bacteria from the digestive system, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) being the most common. These bacteria usually reside in the colon.
Other causes include:
- Poor hygiene
- Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract
- Diabetes
- Poor nutrition
- Immune system deficiencies
Symptoms of UTI in kids
Symptoms of UTIs can vary depending on the child and the severity of the condition.
Common symptoms include
- Frequent and painful urination
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Cloudy, dark or strange-smelling urine
- Pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen
- Fever
- Foul-smelling urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
Complications of UTI in kids
Complications of UTI in kids can include:
- kidney damage
- high blood pressure
- increased risk of future UTIs.
Other possible complications are scarring of the kidneys, an increased risk of sepsis, and a higher risk of bladder cancer.
Some children may have severe abdominal pain or fever, and some may develop an obstruction in their urinary tract that requires surgery.
Treatments for pediatric urinary tract infection
There are several types of treatment available for pediatric UTI. In most cases, a course of antibiotics is prescribed, with the other treatment complementing this.:
Treatments include:
- Antibiotics: The primary treatment for pediatric urinary tract infections is antibiotics. The type and duration of antibiotic therapy will depend on the child’s age, the severity of the infection, and any underlying health conditions.
- Fluids: It is important to ensure that your child will drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the infection.
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to reduce pain and fever associated with urinary tract infections.
- Cranberry juice: Some studies have suggested that drinking cranberry juice may help to reduce the risk of developing a urinary tract infection.
- Diet modification: Eating a healthy, balanced diet that is low in sugar and refined carbohydrates can help to reduce the risk of developing a urinary tract infection.
- Probiotics: Taking probiotics may help to restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can help to reduce the risk of developing a urinary tract infection.
What is the cost of pediatric urinary tract infection treatment?
The treatment costs for pediatric urinary tract infection for kids will depend on a number of factors, including the cause, the required tests, the severity of the case and the decided-upon treatment plan.
We also accept most major medical health insurance policies and self-pay options.
Urgent Care near me for pediatric urinary tract infection
At Night Lite Pediatrics, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality UTI treatment plans for pediatric patients in Florida. We understand that parents and families may have questions or need help in deciding the best course of action for their child, so we are always available to offer support and guidance. We also provide educational resources to help with the management of this condition.
Our clinics are open seven days a week, accommodating walk-ins and suggested arrival times. You can contact us at any of our 13 Florida locations listed below:
- John Young Pkwy, Orlando, FL
- Turkey Lake – “The Tourist Area”, Orlando, FL
- East Orlando, FL
- Apopka, FL
- Winter Garden, FL
- Kissimmee, FL
- Oviedo, FL
- Lake Mary, FL
- St. Cloud Kissimmee, FL
- West Melbourne, FL
- Port St. Lucie, FL
- Mandarin Jacksonville, FL
- South Side Jacksonville, FL
How to book an appointment
- Fill in a registration form to schedule a time to be seen.
- Telemedicine appointments
- Walk-ins are welcome. Find a location near you.
FAQ
Below you can find a list of common questions and answers regarding children’s urinary tract infections.
Your pediatrician may be able to diagnose or treat urinary tract infections, however, you can see your primary care physician, an urgent care doctor or a urologist for a UTI diagnosis and treatment.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) in a child needs to be evaluated and treated quickly. If left untreated, a UTI can lead to more serious health problems. If your child has symptoms of a UTI, you should contact your urgent care doctor right away.
Yes, it is important to take your child to urgent care if he/she is showing any symptoms of a UTI. Untreated UTIs can cause serious complications, so it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
It is not recommended to give a child any over-the-counter medications for a UTI. The best course of action is to take the child to a doctor who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Bladder infection and UTI (urinary tract infection) are not the same. A bladder infection is an infection of the bladder and can be caused by a UTI. A UTI is an infection of the entire urinary system, which includes the bladder, kidneys, urethra, and ureters.
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from Night Lite Pediatrics Urgent Care