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Urinary tract infections (UTIs) may be common in adults, but children actually suffer from their symptoms as well. Noticing the symptoms of a UTI in your child is critical, as it can actually go on to affect the bladder and kidneys if not treated.

The cause of urinary tract infections is bacteria that reach the bladder or kidneys through the urethra. For children, bacteria can come from not wiping well after using the bathroom or not using the bathroom often enough. Another health condition may also cause problems with the urinary tract.

Unsure if your child has a UTI? The symptoms for children may have slight differences from the symptoms found in adults. Here are a few of the symptoms you should recognize.

Fever

Since a UTI is a type of infection, you can expect to see your child's fever increase. If you notice a large increase in your child's fever along with chills and severe pain in the abdominal area, you should see a doctor immediately.

Poor Appetite

Children who have UTIs often aren't feeling well in general, so they may not want to eat or drink. Unfortunately, this can be detrimental to your child's overall health because he or she needs to be drinking lots of fluids.

Nausea and Vomiting

A child feeling sick to their stomach is always a cause for concern. When you suspect your child has a UTI, you should take note of this. It is a sign you need to take your child to a doctor.

Changes in Urine

While you may not be monitoring your child's urine, some of the most common symptoms of a UTI are associated with urine. For instance, your child may have bloody or cloudy urine. In many cases, those with UTIs exhibit urine with a foul or strong smell.

Most often, a child will express a need to urinate frequently. Upon urinating, the child may express that they felt burning or intense pain at the urethra. Sometimes, children who are potty trained will even wet themselves because of the symptoms.

Nothing

Unfortunately, symptoms may not appear at all in a child with a UTI. This is why taking note of any and all symptoms your child experiences is crucial. They are often incredibly subtle, like an increase in the urge to urinate.

Your child deserves excellent pediatric care. If you suspect your child has a UTI, call your child's pediatrician right away. Antibiotics and other treatments are vital for a full, quick recovery.