Urinary Tract Infections in Children

Starting home treatment at the first signs of a Reference urinary tract infection (UTI) Opens New Window in your child may prevent the problem from getting worse and help clear up your child's infection.

• Encourage—but do not force—your child to drink extra fluids as soon as you notice the symptoms and for the next 24 hours. This will help make the urine less concentrated and wash out the infection-causing bacteria. Extra fluids may change some of the ways your child's body naturally fights infection. But most doctors recommend drinking a lot of fluids when you have a UTI. Do not give your child caffeinated or carbonated beverages, which can irritate the bladder.
• Encourage your child to urinate often and to empty his or her bladder each time.

Note: Remember that home treatment is not a substitute for professional care and evaluation. If you think your child may have a UTI, a doctor should see him or her right away.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.