Doctors in Northern Cyprus warn: urinary tract infections in children can lead to kidney damage

Medical professionals in Northern Cyprus are warning about an increase in cases of urinary tract infections (UTIs) among children and remind that delayed treatment of such illnesses can result in serious complications, including kidney damage.

According to pediatricians, urinary tract infections are among the most common childhood diseases, especially among girls. Symptoms include frequent and painful urination, lower abdominal pain, burning sensation, and in some cases, fever and changes in urine color. If the infection is not treated in time, it may spread upward through the urinary tract and cause kidney inflammation (pyelonephritis), which can impair kidney function in the long term.

Doctors emphasize that early diagnosis is crucial. Parents are advised to consult a doctor immediately if alarming symptoms appear — especially if the child complains of pain during urination, has a high fever without an obvious cause, or cloudy urine.

Treatment of UTIs is usually carried out with antibiotics prescribed after laboratory urine analysis and identification of the infection-causing bacteria. In addition, specialists recommend ensuring that the child drinks plenty of fluids, avoids long delays in urination, maintains good hygiene, and wears cotton underwear, which provides ventilation and reduces the risk of recurrent infections.

Doctors also stress the importance of preventive check-ups: in cases of recurrent infections, it is recommended to perform an ultrasound of the kidneys and urinary tract to rule out possible congenital abnormalities or obstructions.

Health authorities in Northern Cyprus plan to step up educational efforts among parents and school staff to raise awareness about the symptoms and prevention of urinary tract infections in children. Doctors emphasize that timely medical attention is the key to preserving a child’s kidney health.