Urinary symptoms and a known problem of the urinary tract

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Urinary symptoms and a known problem of the urinary tract

Problems with the structure or function of the urinary tract often cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) in babies and young children. A problem such as vesicoureteral reflux or an obstruction in the urinary tract may make it difficult for the child’s bladder to empty completely when he or she urinates. This will allow bacteria to grow and spread more easily through the urinary tract. These problems may be present at birth (congenital) or can be the result of surgery, injury, or past infection.

During the first year of life, boys are more likely than girls to have a structural (anatomic) reason for urinary problems. If your child has a known problem with the structure of the urinary tract, follow your health professional's instructions regarding when to seek care for urinary symptoms.

A child who has a structural problem with the urinary tract may have symptoms that are different from a child without such a problem. It is important to pay attention to your child's symptoms so that you can seek care appropriately if the same symptoms develop again.

UTIs may be more difficult to treat in children who have structural problems. If your child has a UTI, your health professional may order tests such as an ultrasound or X-rays of the bladder (cystourethrography) to check for structural problems after the infection has been properly treated.

Credits

Last updated:	April 30, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Peter Anderson, MD, FRCS(C) - Pediatric Urology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer