Association between duration of constipation and frequency of urinary tract infection in children

Abstract

Background: Constipation and Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) are common problems in children. The gastrointestinal tract and the urinary system are related together anatomically and functionally. Constipation is one of the possible causes of UTI and its recurrence. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between the duration of constipation and the frequency of upper and lower UTI in children in Sanandaj. Methods: A descriptive-analytical study was performed on children with chronic constipation aged less than 12 years, referring to the Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic of Besat Hospital in Sanandaj in 2018-2019. Urine analysis and culture were performed for all the patients. Data were recorded in separate questionnaires. Results: There were 220 children in this study. Most cases of constipation and UTI belonged to the group of 3-6 years. Constipation was more common in boys and UTI in girls. Lower UTI was more common than upper UTI. Besides, 45% of the patients had constipation for less than a year. There was no significant relationship between the duration of constipation and the prevalence and type of UTI (upper or lower) (P = 0.405, P = 0.911). Conclusions: Urinary tract infection was common in children with chronic constipation. There was no relationship between the duration of constipation and the frequency and type of UTI.