A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur anywhere in the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. UTIs are most commonly caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, although they can also be caused by other microorganisms such as fungi and viruses.
The most common symptoms of a UTI include:
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Blood in the urine
- Pelvic pain (in women)
- Lower back pain (in men)
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
To diagnose a UTI, a healthcare provider will typically ask about your symptoms and medical history, and may also perform a physical examination. They may also order a urine sample to be tested in a laboratory. This can help to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection and guide treatment.
Treatment for a UTI typically involves antibiotics. Your healthcare provider will choose the specific antibiotic based on the type of bacteria causing the infection and your medical history. Some examples of antibiotics used to treat UTIs include:
- Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim)
- Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)
UTIs are relatively common, especially in women. It is estimated that about 50% of women will have a UTI at some point in their lives. UTIs are also more common in older adults, people with diabetes, and people with compromised immune systems.
If left untreated, a UTI can lead to serious complications, such as kidney infection or sepsis. It is important to seek medical treatment if you suspect you may have a UTI.