If your little one has developed a fever, it just might be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI). A UTI occurs when bacteria make their way up the urethra to the bladder. While the bladder is usually a sterile environment, bacteria thrive in dark, damp places, leading to infection. Although most UTIs are not serious, they can sometimes spread to the kidneys, which could cause more significant issues.
What Symptoms Should You Look For?
Unlike adults, babies and toddlers rarely exhibit typical UTI symptoms like a frequent urge to urinate or painful urination. Dr. Emily Carter, a pediatrician based in Atlanta, Georgia, explains, “Infants often show no obvious signs. They don’t typically cry, and you won’t notice any changes in urine color or smell. Blood in the urine is also rare.”
The most common indicator of a UTI in infants is a prolonged fever—if your child has a fever lasting five days or more without any other symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor and check for a UTI.
How Are UTIs Diagnosed in Babies?
Doctors will usually need to analyze a urine sample from your baby. Collecting this sample can be tricky since many babies are not potty-trained. Medical professionals often use urine collection bags, which are essentially sticky pads with a hole that attach to your baby, allowing urine to flow into the bag. Your doctor will guide you on how to secure the collection bag for testing.
In some cases, a catheter may be used to obtain a sterile sample. This involves inserting a small tube into the urethra. While this procedure can be uncomfortable, you can ask if a numbing cream can be applied beforehand to minimize discomfort. Catheterization is often reserved for emergency situations.
How Common Are UTIs in Babies?
In the United States, about 3% of young children experience UTIs each year. Although girls are generally more prone to these infections, the trend seems less pronounced in infants and toddlers. Some studies suggest that uncircumcised boys might be at a higher risk compared to circumcised boys, but in practice, Dr. Carter doesn’t observe a significant difference.
What Causes UTIs in Babies?
UTIs typically occur when bacteria enter the bladder. In babies who wear diapers, the close proximity to bacteria (like that from feces) often plays a role in the development of these infections. Additionally, some children may have anatomical differences that make them more susceptible to UTIs.
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In summary, urinary tract infections in infants can be subtle and often present only as a fever. If your child shows signs of prolonged fever without other symptoms, it’s wise to consult with a pediatrician for a urine test. Early detection and proper treatment can help prevent complications.
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