Monsoon season is easily a favourite season with kids as it brings respite from the heat of summer and much awaited transition in season . However, on the other hand it also brings the risk of a variety of infectious diseases that can easily spread and especially caution is required to protect from catching infections. The sudden variation in the weather can cause a reduction in body’s immune system , which makes it susceptible to infections. The dampness and humidity during this season easily help the bacteria to grow abruptly.
One of the most common infections that can be seen during monsoon season is Urinary tract infection (UTI), especially in children. In UTI, bacterial infections enter the urethra and cause a burning sensation when one urinates, and this causes an infection. Usually boys who are under 1 year of age and girls below four years are more prone to UTI infection.
The body parts that are involved in UTI are:
- The bladder that stores the urine until it is removed from the body.
Children can develop a UTI when bacteria enter the urinary tract and travel up the urethra and into the body. The two kinds of UTIs most likely to affect children are bladder infections and kidney infections. When a UTI impacts the kid's bladder, it is called "cystitis" and when the infection reaches from the bladder to the kidneys, it is known as "pyelonephritis". Both the infections can be treated with antibiotics, but if the kidney has severe infection, it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. The complications of UTI include damage to the kidney and high blood pressure. Infants and young children are at the greatest risk if their kidneys are impacted at such a young age. The highest incidence of underlying urinary tract abnormalities, such as vesicoureteral reflux, also occurs at this young age group. Promptly recognizing and carefully treating the UTI, the doctor reduces the risk of injury to the kidneys.
Preventing children from contracting UTI is possible by adopting certain measures. Therefore, parents must make sure hydration levels of their kids are monitored and maintained. Usually , kids tend to avoid drinking water during this season due to lack of thirst. Here are few ways to prevent urinary tract infections:
- Keep your kids well hydrated and atleast drink 7 – 8 glasses of water is recommended throughout the day. Fluids like fruit juices, soups may also be helpful.
- Have enough amount of vitamin C and zinc to reducing bacterial growth.
Parents are advised to check with their pediatricians to understand about all infections, so that the doctor can prescribe antibiotics if required.
When should parents take their children to doctors?
If UTI remains untreated or has become worse, parents may notice certain symptoms in their child. The most common symptoms of UTI include burning sensation and feeling of pain while urinating, frequent and intense urge to urinate, dark colored urine, strange-smelling urine, and fever in severe cases. They are a red flag, and parents should rush their kid to a doctor they display:
- Severe pain and a burning sensation while urinating.
Urinary tract infection is not a major health concern for kids but if it persists for long, it can affect the child’s kidneys which can lead to major health issues. So, try out the above-mentioned home remedies to cure UTI in children, and if they do not work, take a doctor’s opinion as soon as possible.
With the pandemic affecting people both mentally and physically, It has become difficult to distinguish between a normal viral fever triggered by the weather or bacterial infection, and something more serious in children, hence, one should always be prepared to ensure that their family is protected. UTI condition is easily treatable and parents should not panic, however they must be aware & watch out for any red flags/symptoms that may indicate towards a UTI infection.
The best way to know the root cause of any health issue bothering their child is a visit to a trusted pediatrician and taking the recommended tests. However, it is always advised to take basic precautionary measures by the parents for the kids to stay safe and healthy.
This article is authored by Dr. Suresh Gowda, Consultant Paediatrician & Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, HRBR, Bangalore
.jpg?w=600)
