URINARY TRACT

OVERVIEW ON URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system including your kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract which is the bladder and the urethra.

Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than are men. Infection limited to your bladder can be painful and annoying. However, serious consequences can occur if a UTI spreads to your kidneys.

Doctors typically treat urinary tract infections with antibiotics. But you can take steps to reduce your chances of getting a UTI in the first place.

A diagram of the human body showing the kidneys and ursitis.

A diagram of the kidneys and listeriosis.

Urinary tract infections don’t always cause signs and symptoms, but when they do, they may include.

A strong, persistent urge to urinate
A burning sensation when urinating
Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
Urine that appears cloudy
Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored – a sign of blood in the urine.
Strong-smelling urine
Pelvic pain, in women – especially in the center of the pelvis and around the area of the pubic bone.

UTIs may be overlooked or mistaken for other conditions in older adults.

TYPES OF URINARY TRACT INFECTION

Each type of UTI may result in more-specific signs and symptoms, depending on which part of your urinary tract is infected.

KIDNEYS

Upper back and side (flank) pain
High fever
Shaking and chills
Nausea
Vomiting

BLADDER

Pelvic pressure
Lower abdomen discomfort
Frequent, painful urination
Blood in urine

URETHRA

Burning with urination
Discharge

CONTACT US IF YOU HAVE SIGNS OR SYMPTOMS

REQUEST AN APPOINTEMENT AT COASTAL MED URGENT CARE

When treated promptly and properly, lower urinary tract infections rarely lead to complications. But left untreated, a urinary tract infection can have serious consequences.