: Risk Factors for Urinary Infections in Children

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(461 Words)
Fortunately, urinary tract infections are not particularly common in children. Certain kids possess risk factors that can increase their occurrence, however. It is important to be aware of these so that you can do what you can to prevent and control these.
Structural issues
Some children have structural problems that can make them more likely to get urinary tract infections. If your child has recurrent infections, your physician may refer him or her to a specialist for further tests.
“Holding it”
It is important that your children use the facilities when they need to. If they are always “holding it in,” then they may increase their chances or contracting a urinary tract infection. A lot of children wait until the last possible minute to rush to the bathroom. You may want to encourage them to go sooner. If you think that they have to go then send them. You can also just tell them to go at certain time intervals if it is a particular issue.
Not cleaning fully after a bowel movement
It is very important to fully wipe after a bowel movement to get rid of the bacteria that could cause urinary tract infections. If you are cleaning the child still, then be sure to do so thoroughly. You should make sure to teach your child well. If you do not believe they can do a sufficient job, then wipe them yourself, even if they are older and out of diapers.
If you have a child still in diapers, it is also important to change their diapers in a timely manner. The longer they sit in it, the more likely the bacteria will get in to cause an infection.
Being a girl
Females of all ages are more likely to get urinary tract infections than males. It does not mean that males cannot get it, of course, but it is less likely.
Incorrectly cleaning
You should be sure to teach your female child to wipe from the front to the back. This can help avoid having the bacteria travel up to where it can cause a urinary tract infection. If you are still wiping your child, then you should be sure to wipe this way as well. Teach them this from the beginning, and they may be more likely to make it a habit that they keep up.
If you think that your child could possibly have a urinary tract infection then it is important to get them evaluated immediately. Left untreated, the infection can travel to the kidneys and even to the bloodstream. Although the above risk factors may increase a child’s risk of these infections, it is important to remember that any child can get it at any time. Talk to your physician about any particular concerns.