The prevalence of cystitis in children is still unknown. Healthcare providers however are continuously seeing and diagnosing this health condition on younger populations. There is limited information regarding cystitis in children, hence, most of the diagnostic and treatment methods are similar to that of what is being used on adults.
Symptoms of cystitis in children
Symptoms of cystitis in children are similar to that of adults. These symptoms include:
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Urinary frequency
- Urinary urgency
- Muscle pains
- Allergic reactions
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Pain in the vulva
Some children also experiences bedwetting, urinary incontinence and extraordinary urinary frequency
How is cystitis diagnosed in children?
Diagnosis of cystitis in children can be challenging. Hence, it is often made through ruling out other health conditions. Several specialist visitations may be needed before properly identifying bladder infection amongst the younger population. Diagnostic steps include the following:
- Health history taking
- Physical examination
- Urinalysis
- Urine culture
- Diagnostics to rule out other health conditions
Other tests that can help in diagnosing cystitis include bladder ultrasound, cystoscopy, hydrodistention, voiding and fluid intake diary, urodynamic testing, validated symptom questionnaires and therapeutic solution testing.
Cystitis treatment in children
The mainstay conservative treatment in children diagnosed with cystitis is dietary management. Other conservative treatment methods include relaxation techniques, yoga and pelvic floor physical therapies.
Intake of low dose standard adult oral medications is also used for treating this condition in children. The dosage is dependent on the discretion of the medical team attending your child. These medications include the following:
- Hydroxyzine
- Amitriptyline
- Pentosanpolysulfate
- Cimetidine
- Gabapentin
- Opioid analgesics
Another treatment method includes bladder instillation of DMSO and therapeutic solutions such as heparin, lidocaine and bicarbonate.
Challenges of cystitis in children
Cystitis can be debilitation to you and your child. Your child may need to miss school for frequent medical specialist visits. They may need extra room breaks because of frequent urination. Additionally, cystitis can be embarrassing which may make your child subject of ridicule and teasing.
What can you do?
Despite the fact that cystitis can be quite a challenge, you can do something for your child. Here is a list of things that you can do.
- Communicate with your child’s healthcare providers, school nurse, teachers, principal, gym teacher and other people who are directly in contact with your child.
- Reassure your child that cystitis is a treatable condition.
- Educate yourself about your child’s condition as well as its treatments.
- Learn about self-help strategies that may help in easing your child’s manifestations.
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