Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI), is a general term for an infection anywhere between the kidneys and the urethra. It often causes pain or burning when you urinate.

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

Symptoms of a UTI vary depending on where the infection is located.

Symptoms of a UTI in the bladder include:

Pain or burning when you urinate
An urge to urinate often, but usually passing only small amounts of urine
Pain in the lower stomach
Urine that looks cloudy, is pink or red, or smells bad

Symptoms of a UTI in the kidneys include:

Pain in the flank. This is felt just below the rib cage and above the waist on one or both sides of the back.
Fever and chills
Nausea and vomiting

What causes a urinary tract infection?

UTIs are caused by bacteria. The bacteria that most often cause these infections live in the large intestine and are found in stool. Bacteria typically get into the urinary tract through the urethra. The urethra carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.

How is a urinary tract infection diagnosed?

To diagnose a UTI, your doctor will test a sample of your urine to see if it has germs that cause infections. Your doctor will also ask about your past health and do a physical exam.

Your doctor may do other tests if you have infections often, if antibiotics don’t help, or if the infection comes back. You may also need more tests if there is a complication.

How is a urinary tract infection treated?

Antibiotics can cure most UTIs. If your UTI doesn’t improve after you take antibiotics, you’ll need further evaluation and more antibiotic treatment.

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Urinary Tract Infection

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