Urinary tract infection-UTI

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract—the bladder and the urethra. UTIs are caused by bacteria and are much more common in women than in men. 

Signs and symptoms

The signs and symptoms of a UTI can depend on whether the infection is in the lower tract (bladder) or has spread to the kidneys. 

Lower urinary tract (bladder) infection

  • Urgent and frequent urination: A strong, persistent urge to urinate, even if you just went.

  • Burning sensation: A painful, stinging, or burning feeling while urinating.

  • Pelvic or abdominal pain: Discomfort or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.

  • Cloudy, strong-smelling, or bloody urine: Your urine may appear cloudy or reddish, pink, or cola-colored.

  • Difficulty urinating: You may feel the need to urinate but only pass a small amount. 

Upper urinary tract (kidney) infection

If the infection has spread to the kidneys, it is more serious and can cause: 

  • High fever and chills

  • Back and side pain, often below the ribs

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • General feeling of being unwell

  • Confusion or mental changes, especially in older adults 

Diagnosis

A doctor can often diagnose a UTI based on your symptoms and a simple urine test. 

  • Urinalysis: You provide a urine sample, which is analyzed for the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, and blood.

  • Urine culture: In some cases, a urine culture may be done to identify the specific type of bacteria causing the infection and help determine the most effective antibiotic.

  • Imaging tests: For more complicated or recurrent infections, a doctor may order an ultrasound or CT scan to look for any abnormalities in the urinary tract. 

Treatment

UTIs are treated with antibiotics, and getting early treatment is important to prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys. 

Medical treatment

  • Antibiotics: For a simple bladder infection, a short course of antibiotics (typically 3–7 days) is often prescribed. For more complicated or kidney infections, a longer course may be necessary, sometimes starting with intravenous (IV) antibiotics in the hospital.

  • Pain relievers: An over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain and fever. Your doctor may also prescribe a medication like phenazopyridine (Azo), which numbs the bladder lining to reduce the burning and urgency.

  • Finish the full course of antibiotics: It is very important to take all the antibiotics as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve quickly. This ensures the infection is completely gone and helps prevent antibiotic resistance. 

Home care and symptom relief

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria out of your system.

  • Urinate frequently: Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge and empty your bladder completely.

  • Use a heating pad: Applying a warm heating pad to your abdomen can help ease pressure and discomfort. 

When to call a doctor

Seek medical attention if you suspect you have a UTI, as it requires professional diagnosis and treatment. Get immediate medical help if you have symptoms of a kidney infection, such as fever, back pain, or nausea

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