Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is a common but serious infection in children. If detected early, it can be treated easily. If ignored, it can lead to kidney damage or blood infection (sepsis).
For Nigerian parents raising children in the UK, understanding the warning signs, risk factors, and when to see a GP is very important.
What Is a UTI?
A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection of the urinary system, usually caused by bacteria.
The urinary tract has three main parts:
- Ureters – carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder
- Bladder – stores urine
- Urethra – carries urine out of the body
A UTI can affect any part of this system. While UTIs are common in children, certain habits and medical conditions can increase a child’s risk.
Signs & Symptoms of UTI in Children
In Babies
- Fever without a clear cause
- Vomiting
- Poor feeding
- Irritability or unusual crying
In Toddlers & Older Children
- Fever
- Pain or burning when passing urine
- Passing urine more often than usual
- Urgent need to pee or wetting accidents
- Lower tummy (abdominal) pain
- Foul-smelling, cloudy, or bloody urine
- Vomiting or tiredness
When UTI Becomes More Serious (Kidney Infection)
If the infection spreads to the kidneys, it is called pyelonephritis, which is more dangerous.
Warning signs include:
- High fever with chills
- Pain in the back or side
- Severe tiredness
- Persistent vomiting
- Child looks generally unwell
This requires urgent medical attention.
Children at Higher Risk of UTIs
- Structural problems in the urinary tract (blockage or malformed kidneys)
- Vesico-ureteric reflux (urine flowing backwards from bladder to kidneys)
- Poor toilet hygiene
- Constipation
- Family history of UTIs
How Is UTI Diagnosed in the UK?
If a UTI is suspected, a urine sample must be taken before antibiotics are started.
- Urine should be collected in a sterile container
- A mid-stream urine sample is preferred
- Urine culture is sent to the lab to confirm infection
Your GP or NHS clinic will guide you through this.
Treatment for UTI
- Antibiotics are the main treatment
- After completing antibiotics, another urine test may be needed
- This ensures the infection is fully cleared
⚠️ An untreated or partially treated UTI can return or spread.
What Happens If UTI Is Not Treated?
Untreated UTIs can:
- Spread to the kidneys
- Cause permanent kidney damage
- Enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis (life-threatening)
Early treatment saves lives.
How Parents Can Help Prevent UTIs
Simple daily habits can greatly reduce risk:
💧 Encourage Good Hydration
- Children should drink 6–8 cups of fluid daily
- Under 5 years: 120–150 ml cups
- 6 years and above: 250–300 ml cups
🚽 Regular Toilet Habits
- Encourage children to pee every 2–3 hours
- Make toilet breaks part of school and home routine
💩 Prevent Constipation
- High-fibre foods (fruit, vegetables, whole grains)
- Plenty of water
- Regular physical activity
Constipation can block urine flow and trap bacteria.
🧻 Correct Wiping Technique
- Always wipe front to back, especially for girls
- Reduces spread of bacteria from stool to urine opening
🔁 Double Voiding
- After peeing, count to 10 and try again
- Helps empty bladder fully and reduce infection risk
🛁 Avoid Bubble Baths & Harsh Soaps
- These can irritate genital skin
- Prefer showers or plain water baths without additives
When Should You Contact Your GP or NHS 111?
Call your GP urgently if your child has:
- Fever with chills
- Pain when passing urine
- Back or side pain
- Foul-smelling, bloody, or discoloured urine
- Pain below the belly button
- Fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
For babies:
- Fever
- Poor feeding
- Repeated vomiting
- Unusual irritability
In emergencies, attend A&E or contact NHS 111 immediately.
Final Word for Nigerian Parents in the UK
UTIs in children are common—but never normal.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, seek medical advice early.
At Naija UK Connect, we share health information you can trust, explained in a way Nigerian families can understand.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for health education only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your GP or healthcare provider.
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