/assets/images/provider/photos/2859170.jpeg)
Is your child acting fussy or complaining of pain when they pee? Learn why acting fast for a pediatric urinary tract infection is crucial and how our team helps protect your child's health.
When your child is sick, you want answers and relief as quickly as possible. Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are surprisingly common in children, but don’t wait them out. Knowing what to look for can help you take action before a minor issue becomes a major concern.
At Hibari Family Medical in Edgewater, New Jersey, Dr. Chika Kuwama and our experienced team provide dedicated pediatric care to diagnose and treat these infections.
When it comes to a UTI, seeking prompt medical attention is the best way to keep your child comfortable and prevent serious complications.
Why quick action matters for pediatric UTIs
A pediatric UTI occurs when harmful bacteria enter the bladder or kidneys, causing discomfort and often a sudden fever.
About 8% of children experience a UTI by age 11, and up to 30% of them have a recurrence within a year. This high rate of recurrence means that an accurate diagnosis early is important for your child's long-term health.
Delaying treatment can allow the infection to travel from the bladder to the kidneys. This delay significantly increases the risk of permanent kidney scarring, which can cause long-term health issues, such as high blood pressure, later in life.
Recognizing the signs of a UTI in children
Children don't always experience or describe symptoms the same way adults do. While older kids might tell you it hurts to urinate, infants and toddlers often show more general signs of distress that are easy to mistake for teething or a cold.
Watch for unexplained fevers, unusual irritability, vomiting, or a sudden refusal to eat. You might also notice bedwetting accidents in a child who’s toilet-trained, or urine that has a strong, unpleasant smell. If you notice any of these changes, seek professional medical help.
How we diagnose and treat pediatric UTIs
If you suspect an infection, we can help with a quick evaluation. We offer same-day appointments so your child doesn't have to wait for relief. Our team works quickly to collect a sample and run the necessary tests to find out what’s going on.
Once we confirm a diagnosis, we can prescribe the right treatment to clear the bacteria. A 5- to 7-day course of targeted oral antibiotics, such as cephalexin, is highly effective for clearing uncomplicated pediatric UTIs.
We also guide you on how to keep your child comfortable while the medicine works.
Don't navigate your child's health concerns alone. If you notice any warning signs of a urinary tract infection, reach out to us right away. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with our compassionate team.