What Is a Urinary Tract Infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system: the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra) and are caused by bacteria, most commonly E. coli.

UTIs are common in both women and men, though women get them more often because the female urethra is shorter. Knowing the early symptoms helps you seek medical advice on time and avoid complications.

Common Symptoms of UTI (Lower Urinary Tract)

When the bladder or urethra is infected, you may notice:

• Burning or pain while passing urine
• A frequent urge to urinate, often passing only small amounts
• A strong, sudden urge to urinate (urgency)
• Cloudy or dark urine
• Urine with a strong or foul smell
• Blood in the urine (pink, red or cola-coloured)
• Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen or above the pubic bone
• A feeling that the bladder is not empty
• Waking up at night to urinate

Symptoms of a Kidney Infection (Upper Urinary Tract)

If the infection spreads to the kidneys, it needs prompt medical attention. Symptoms may include:

• Fever with chills
• Pain in the back or side (flank pain)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Feeling very weak or unwell
• Along with the lower urinary symptoms above

UTI Symptoms in Different Groups

Women: Burning urination, frequency, urgency, and lower abdominal discomfort are typical. Pregnant women should report any urinary symptoms early, as UTIs during pregnancy need timely evaluation.

Men: Symptoms are similar, and may include discomfort in the lower abdomen or rectal area. UTIs are less common in men, so persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor to look for an underlying cause such as prostate enlargement or stones.

Children: Young children may not be able to describe their symptoms. Watch for unexplained fever, irritability, poor feeding, vomiting, foul-smelling urine, or new bedwetting in a toilet-trained child.

Older adults: Symptoms can be subtle. Sudden confusion, weakness, falls or reduced appetite may sometimes be the only signs.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

• Women, especially after menopause or during pregnancy
• People with diabetes
• Those with kidney stones or an enlarged prostate
• People who use a urinary catheter
• Those who do not drink enough water or often hold urine
• People with a weakened immune system
• Those with a history of repeated UTIs

When Should You See a Doctor?

Consult a doctor if you have urinary symptoms that last more than a day or two, or if they keep coming back. Seek medical care urgently if you have:

• Fever, chills or back/flank pain
• Blood in the urine
• Vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down
• Symptoms during pregnancy
• Symptoms in a young child or an older adult

Please avoid taking antibiotics on your own. Using them without a proper diagnosis can hide the problem, delay treatment and contribute to antibiotic resistance.

How Is a UTI Diagnosed?

A doctor will usually ask about your symptoms and medical history, and may advise a urine routine examination and a urine culture to identify the bacteria. Depending on the situation, blood tests or imaging such as an ultrasound may be advised. Treatment is decided by the doctor after evaluation.

Tips to Help Prevent UTIs

• Drink enough water through the day
• Do not hold urine for long periods
• Urinate after sexual intercourse
• Women should wipe from front to back after using the toilet
• Wear clean, breathable cotton underwear
• Keep blood sugar well controlled if you have diabetes
• Maintain good personal hygiene