Urinary tract infections are caused by infection either in the kidneys or bladder. It is very important to treat these infections to avoid kidney damage.

Signs and symptoms may include:

• Fever.
• Using the bathroom more often than usual.
• Trouble urinating even when feeling the need.
• Pain or burning with urination.
• Blood in urine.
• Vomiting.
• Fatigue.
• Low back pain.

If your child has a Urinary Tract Infection, you should:

• Give your child medicine as often and in the amount your doctor directs.
• Go back to the doctor for follow-up appointments to make sure the infection is clear or does not return.
• Follow-up is very important to make sure an infection not completely treated does not cause damage to your child's kidneys. It is common for UTIs to return without any symptoms, so urine tests must be done by your doctor.

To prevent Urinary Tract Infections:

• Teach girls to wipe from front to back with toilet paper after using the bathroom.
• Do not let girls use bubble bath.
• Do not let girls use sprays or powders in the genital area.
• Let your child go to the bathroom when he or she needs to go. Holding urine for long periods of time isn't good.
• Bathe your child daily.
• Put clean cotton underwear on your child daily.

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Information and links found on the UT Medical Group, Inc. web site are neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency call your healthcare provider immediately.