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What could cause painful urination in children at 4?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My son is 4 years old. He has been having trouble peeing for the past two days. I do not know if his penis burns or itches when he pees.

When I ask him if it hurts, he says no. It looks like he wants to pee but keeps holding it, since it is painful. There is some red pus or something in his diaper. What could be the reason?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Babu Lal Meena

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The clinical features that you have mentioned indicate that your baby might have a UTI (urinary tract infection) or a urinary stone (less likely). A child with UTI will have a burning sensation during micturition (urination).

UTI might cause hematuria (blood in urine). This is the cause of the red color in your child's diaper. UTI may or may not be associated with fever.

Follow these steps:

  1. Get a urine routine examination done for pus cells, RBCs, WBC's and crystals.
  2. Get a urine culture sensitivity test done.
  3. Get an ultrasound kidney/ureter/bladder done.
  4. Monitor your child's body temperature.
  5. Give him plenty of fluid.
  6. Monitor his urine output.
  7. Give him a tablet of Paracetamol 300 mg twice a day, it will reduce the pain.

For the prescription of antibiotics, revert back with the reports to a child health specialist online.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Published At August 2, 2014
Reviewed AtDecember 26, 2025

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Painful Urination in Children Awareness Builder

Child's painful urination?

Five quick questions help you understand potential causes and when to consult a doctor for your child's painful urination.

For guidance only, not a diagnosis. Always consult a healthcare professional for your child's health.
Dr. Babu Lal Meena
Dr. Babu Lal Meena

Medical Gastroenterology

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