What is a urinary tract infection?
Urinary tract infections are infections of the bladder and kidneys. They happen when bacteria enter the urinary tract and then the bladder. Sometimes the infection then spreads to the kidneys.
UTIs happen in girls and women more often than in men. Older adults and young children are also more likely to get UTIs. Besides age and gender, other factors can affect whether you are more prone to having urinary tract infections:
- Previous UTI
- Sexual activity
- Changes in hormones
- Kidney stones
- Pregnancy
- Prostate enlargement
What are the symptoms of a UTI?
- Pain or burning during urination
- Discomfort in the groin and lower abdomen
- Frequent urination
- Feeling the need to urinate when bladder is empty
- Bloody or cloudy urine
- Change in urine smell or color
- Fever
- Fussiness or changes in appetite in children
How are UTIs diagnosed?
Urine tests and physical exams can determine if you have a UTI. Your provider will ask you to provide a urine sample, which will be tested for the presence of bacteria.
How are UTIs treated?
UTIs are normally treated with antibiotics. Talk to your provider about which antibiotics are right for you. Drinking plenty of water will also help clear the bacteria.
How can I prevent UTIs?
There are certain things you can do to decrease your chances of getting UTIs:
- Urinating before and after sexual activity
- Urinating regularly and drinking lots of fluids
- Teaching children to wipe from front to back
