Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a condition in which urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and sometimes up to the kidneys. This condition is more commonly found in infants and young children and can lead to urinary tract infections and kidney damage if left untreated. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of VUR so that it can be diagnosed and treated early.
In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of vesicoureteral reflux and provide information on what to look out for if you suspect that your child may have this condition.
1. Frequent Urinary Tract Infections
One of the most common symptoms of vesicoureteral reflux is recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Children with VUR are more prone to developing UTIs because the reflux of urine allows bacteria to travel up to the kidneys, causing infections. If your child experiences frequent UTIs, especially if they are accompanied by fever and pain during urination, it could be a sign of VUR.
It’s important to seek medical attention if your child has repetitive UTIs, as untreated UTIs can lead to kidney damage and other complications.
2. Pain or Burning During Urination
Children with VUR may experience pain or burning during urination, similar to the symptoms of a UTI. This can be a result of the presence of bacteria in the urinary tract due to the reflux of urine from the bladder to the ureters and kidneys. If your child complains of discomfort or pain while urinating, it’s important to have them evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out VUR.
Other symptoms that may accompany pain during urination include frequent urination, urgent need to urinate, and foul-smelling urine.
3. Bedwetting
Bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is a common symptom of vesicoureteral reflux in young children. The inability to control urination during sleep can be a result of urinary incontinence caused by VUR. If your child continues to wet the bed beyond the age when most children have gained control over their bladder, it’s important to consider the possibility of VUR and seek medical evaluation.
In some cases, bedwetting may be the only symptom of VUR, so it’s crucial to pay attention to this behavior and discuss it with your child’s healthcare provider.
4. High Blood Pressure
Severe cases of vesicoureteral reflux can lead to kidney damage and scarring, which can affect the overall function of the kidneys. One of the potential complications of kidney damage due to VUR is high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. If your child has unexplained high blood pressure, it may be an indication of kidney problems related to VUR.
Regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function is essential for children diagnosed with VUR to prevent long-term complications.
5. Failure to Thrive
Children with severe vesicoureteral reflux may experience failure to thrive, a condition in which they fail to gain weight and grow at the expected rate for their age. When VUR leads to kidney damage and affects the overall function of the urinary system, it can impact a child’s nutritional status and growth. If your child is not meeting developmental milestones or is falling behind in growth, it’s important to consider the possibility of VUR and seek medical evaluation.
Early intervention and treatment for VUR can help improve a child’s growth and development.
6. Recurrent Kidney Infections
In addition to urinary tract infections, vesicoureteral reflux can also lead to recurrent kidney infections. The reflux of urine from the bladder to the kidneys increases the risk of infection in the kidneys, which can cause damage over time if left untreated. If your child experiences frequent kidney infections, it may be a sign of underlying VUR that needs to be addressed by a healthcare professional.
Kidney infections can be serious and require prompt treatment to prevent complications.
7. Urinary Urgency and Frequency
Children with VUR may experience urinary urgency and frequency, which can be a result of the irritation and inflammation caused by the backward flow of urine. If your child frequently feels the need to urinate and has a sense of urgency, it’s important to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider to determine if VUR may be the underlying cause.
Monitoring the frequency of urination and any associated urgency can provide valuable information for diagnosing VUR in children.
8. Recurrent Flank Pain
Flank pain, which is pain in the area of the back just below the rib cage, can be a symptom of vesicoureteral reflux, especially when it is associated with kidney infections or kidney stones. If your child experiences recurring flank pain, it’s essential to consider the possibility of VUR as a potential cause and seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying issue.
Understanding the source of flank pain and addressing any underlying conditions is crucial for the overall health and well-being of children with VUR.
9. Blood in the Urine
Hematuria, or blood in the urine, can occur in children with vesicoureteral reflux, especially during or after urinary tract infections. The presence of blood in the urine may be visible to the naked eye or detected through urinalysis. If your child has recurrent episodes of blood in the urine, it may be a sign of underlying VUR that requires medical attention and management.
Monitoring for hematuria and discussing any concerns with a healthcare provider is important for diagnosing and addressing VUR in children.
10. Recurrent Vesicoureteral Reflux
Finally, one of the key symptoms of vesicoureteral reflux is the recurrent nature of the condition itself. Children who have been previously diagnosed with VUR and have undergone treatment may experience recurrence of the condition. Recurrent VUR can lead to ongoing urinary tract infections, kidney damage, and other complications, so it’s important to monitor for any signs or symptoms of relapse and seek medical attention if VUR is suspected.
Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is important for children with a history of VUR to manage the condition effectively and prevent long-term complications.
