It's important to take the antibiotics until the prescription is finished. Many people stop taking the medication when they begin to feel better, but that doesn't allow the antibiotics to completely kill the bacteria, which increases the risk that the infection will reappear. If you ever develop a rash from an antibiotic or have difficulty breathing, STOP taking it immediately and call the health care provider who prescribed the medication! For some bladder infections, you may only have to take antibiotics for 3 days, but usually you'll be on medication for 7 to 14 days.

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Bladder Infections in Children

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection of the bladder, kidneys, ureters, or urethra, the organs and tubes that make up the urinary tract. Most UTIs are bladder infections know as cystitis or kidney infections also known as pyelonephritis.

UTIs in children usually clear up quickly if they receive treatment as soon as they are beginning to experience any of the bladder infection symptoms. The biggest concern about untreated UTIs in children is that they can cause permanent kidney damage and scarring.

Repeated scarring can lead to high blood pressure and reduced kidney function, including kidney failure. Infants and young children seem to be at special risk for these problems in the future.