Overview
A urinary tract infection happens when bacteria get into the bladder or urethra, causing burning urination and frequent urges. It is one of the most common infections in adults and is far more frequent in women. UTIs are sometimes confused with vaginal infections, which cause different symptoms — a urine test sorts out which one it is.
Symptoms
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Needing to urinate often, passing small amounts
- Urgent need to urinate
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Lower abdominal discomfort
- Blood in urine (sometimes)
Causes & risk factors
- Bacteria from the bowel entering the urethra
- Holding urine for long periods or low fluid intake
- Sexual activity
- Diabetes, pregnancy or an enlarged prostate
Treatment & self-care
A confirmed UTI is treated with a short course of antibiotics chosen by a doctor, ideally guided by a urine test. Drink plenty of water and empty the bladder fully and regularly. Repeated infections deserve investigation rather than repeated self-medication.
See a doctor urgently if
- Fever, chills or pain in the back or side (possible kidney infection)
- Blood in the urine
- Symptoms in pregnancy, in a man or in a child
- Symptoms not improving after two days of treatment