The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. UTIs can affect different parts of this system, and the symptoms and treatment can vary depending on where the infection occurs.
Most bladder infections are caused by bacteria. When diagnosed early and treated appropriately, most bladder infections do not lead to complications. However, an untreated infection can spread to the kidneys and become more serious.
Common Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection
Symptoms depend on which part of the urinary tract is affected. A bladder infection may cause urinary symptoms such as burning, urgency and lower abdominal discomfort.
Burning While Urinating
A burning or painful feeling during urination is one of the common symptoms of a bladder infection.
Frequent Urination
You may feel the need to urinate more often, sometimes passing only a small amount of urine.
Urgent Need to Urinate
A strong or sudden urge to urinate may occur even when there is little urine in the bladder.
Changes in Urine
Urine may become cloudy, bloody or unusually strong-smelling when a bladder infection is present.
Fever, chills, nausea or vomiting, or pain in the back, side or groin can indicate that an infection may have reached the kidneys and should be assessed promptly.
What Causes a UTI?
UTIs are most often caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and multiplying. The bladder is the most common site of infection, but infection can involve other parts of the urinary system.
The urinary system has natural mechanisms that help prevent infection. Regularly emptying the bladder is one way the body helps maintain a healthy urinary tract.
Most bladder infections are caused by bacteria that enter the bladder and multiply.
Difficulty emptying the bladder completely can increase the chance of urinary infection.
Kidney stones, an enlarged prostate or other urinary blockage can increase infection risk.
Recent or ongoing catheter use can increase the likelihood of a urinary tract infection.
Who Is More Likely to Develop a UTI?
Anyone can develop a urinary tract infection, but some people have a higher risk because of anatomy, previous infections, urinary problems or other medical conditions.
Previous UTI
A previous urinary infection can increase the chance of developing another infection.
Female Anatomy
Women are more likely to develop bladder infections because of urinary-tract anatomy.
Catheter Use
Urinary catheter use can increase the risk of urinary infection.
Urinary Tract Problems
Stones, enlarged prostate, reflux or difficulty emptying the bladder can contribute to risk.
Important: Recurrent UTIs may need evaluation for an underlying urinary-tract problem rather than repeated treatment based on symptoms alone.
How Is a UTI Diagnosed?
A healthcare professional may use your symptoms, medical history, physical examination and laboratory tests to determine whether you have a urinary infection.
Clinical Assessment
Your symptoms, previous infections, medicines and relevant medical history help guide the evaluation.
Urinalysis
A urine sample can be checked for findings such as blood and white blood cells that may occur with infection.
Urine Culture
A urine culture can identify certain bacteria and can help guide antibiotic treatment when appropriate.
Further Testing When Needed
Recurrent or complicated infections may require imaging or other evaluation to identify an underlying cause.
UTI Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection, the person's health and whether there are factors such as recurrent infection or urinary blockage. Bacterial bladder infections are commonly treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Medical Evaluation
The first step is identifying whether the symptoms are actually caused by a UTI or another urinary condition.
Antibiotic Treatment
When a bacterial bladder infection is diagnosed, a healthcare professional may prescribe an appropriate antibiotic.
Complete Treatment as Prescribed
Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed. Stopping or changing treatment without medical advice can contribute to treatment failure and antibiotic resistance.
Adequate Fluids
Drinking enough liquids can support hydration and may help ease symptoms. People with fluid restrictions should follow their doctor's advice.
Treat the Underlying Cause
Recurrent or complicated infections may require evaluation and treatment of problems such as stones, urinary obstruction or incomplete bladder emptying.
Recurrent UTI Evaluation
If infections keep returning, your urologist may recommend further urine testing, imaging or other investigations to identify the cause.
When Can a UTI Affect the Kidneys?
A bladder infection can spread to one or both kidneys. Kidney infection can be more serious and requires prompt medical attention.
- Fever or chills
- Pain in the back or side
- Pain extending toward the groin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Painful urination with systemic symptoms
- Symptoms that are rapidly worsening
A suspected kidney infection should not be managed by delaying medical assessment.
How to Help Prevent Urinary Tract Infections
Some everyday habits can help maintain urinary-tract health. Prevention advice should also take into account whether you have recurrent UTIs or another urinary condition.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough liquids helps maintain hydration and may help reduce the risk of bladder infections. Water is generally the preferred fluid.
Do Not Hold Urine
Use the bathroom when you feel the urge and take enough time to empty the bladder.
Healthy Bathroom Habits
Maintain appropriate hygiene and, for women, wiping from front to back can help reduce movement of bacteria toward the urinary tract.
Avoid Excess Moisture
Loose-fitting clothing and breathable underwear may help keep the area dry and comfortable.
About cranberry products: Cranberry products do not treat an existing bladder infection. Evidence about their role in preventing recurrent bladder infections remains uncertain.
Get Expert Evaluation for UTI Symptoms
If you have persistent urinary symptoms, recurrent UTIs or symptoms suggesting a kidney infection, professional evaluation can help identify the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common symptoms of a UTI?
Common bladder-infection symptoms include burning during urination, frequent or urgent urination, lower abdominal discomfort and cloudy, bloody or strong-smelling urine.
What causes a urinary tract infection?
UTIs are most often caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract and multiply. Certain urinary conditions can increase the risk of infection.
Can a UTI spread to the kidneys?
Yes. A bladder infection can spread to one or both kidneys. Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting or pain in the back or side can be warning signs of a kidney infection.
Are antibiotics always needed for a UTI?
Treatment depends on the diagnosis and the cause. Bacterial bladder infections are commonly treated with antibiotics, but symptoms alone do not always confirm an infection. A healthcare professional should determine the appropriate treatment.
Why do I keep getting UTIs?
Recurrent infections can have several causes. Previous UTIs, difficulty emptying the bladder, urinary blockage, catheter use and other urinary or medical factors may contribute. Recurrent UTIs may require further evaluation.
Medical Information & Disclaimer
This article is intended for general health education and should not replace a medical examination, diagnosis or personalised treatment plan. Urinary symptoms can have several possible causes.
General medical information for this article was checked against resources from the U.S. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).