Symptoms Older children may have pain or burning with urination, frequent small amounts of urine, urgency, lower abdominal pain, foul-smelling urine or new wetting. Babies may show fever, irritability, poor feeding, vomiting or poor weight gain without obvious urinary symptoms.
Diagnosis A properly collected urine sample is essential. Urinalysis can suggest infection, while urine culture identifies the bacteria and guides antibiotic choice. Collecting urine from a bag can lead to contamination and may not be adequate for confirming infection.
Treatment Bacterial UTIs are treated with antibiotics. The medicine and duration depend on the child’s age, illness severity, culture result and whether the kidneys may be involved. The full prescribed course should be completed.
Further assessment Some infants, children with recurrent infections or those with unusual findings may need kidney and bladder imaging. Constipation and abnormal toilet habits can increase the risk of repeated infections.
Urgent care Prompt assessment is needed for fever in a young infant, back or side pain, repeated vomiting, dehydration, marked sleepiness or a child who appears very unwell.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a UTI cause only fever in a baby?
Yes. Infants may have fever without clear urinary symptoms.
Why is a urine culture needed?
It confirms infection and identifies which antibiotic is likely to work.
Can constipation cause repeated UTIs?
It can contribute by affecting bladder emptying and toilet habits.
Does every child need an ultrasound?
No. Imaging depends on age, recurrence and clinical findings.
This information is for education only and does not replace medical assessment or treatment by a qualified physician.