Vesicoureteral reflux

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is the backward flow of urine from the bladder into the kidneys. Normally, urine flows from the kidneys through the ureters to the bladder. The muscles of the bladder and ureters, along with the pressure of urine in the bladder, prevent urine from flowing backward through the ureters.

VUR allows bacteria, which may be present in the urine in the bladder, to reach the kidneys. This can lead to kidney infection, scarring, and damage.

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) doesn't cause any symptoms or pain. But it can result in kidney damage if a child who has VUR gets a urinary tract infection.

A urinary tract infection (UTI) can be a symptom of VUR. Symptoms of a UTI may include fever, pain or burning with urination, frequent urination, and the feeling that the bladder does not empty completely. Fever may be the only symptom of a UTI in a small child. So a urinary tract infection should be suspected in any child who has a high fever without an obvious cause.

Before your baby is born, a prenatal ultrasound can look for a problem with one or both of your baby's kidneys. If a problem is seen, your newborn may have a kidney ultrasound.

If the kidney ultrasound shows that your baby might have vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) may be done. This is an X-ray test that takes pictures of your baby's bladder. It is used to diagnose VUR and to find out if the problem is mild or severe.

Many children don't need treatment for VUR. The ureters grow as a child gets older. Mild cases of VUR often go away by the time a child is 5 years old.

With VUR, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more likely. If your baby gets a UTI, your baby will likely be prescribed antibiotics. Antibiotics may also be given to prevent UTIs.

Severe cases of VUR may need surgery.

Follow any instructions your doctor gives you, and go to all follow-up appointments. Make sure your child drinks enough water and avoids constipation. Encourage your child to urinate often throughout the day. Watch for signs of a problem, and call the doctor if your child is having symptoms, such as a fever.