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Urinary Tract Infection
Moderate
A urinary tract infection is an infection affecting part of the urinary system, including the urethra, bladder, ureters, or kidneys. Most UTIs involve the bladder and may cause burning or pain during urination, frequent or urgent urination, lower abdominal pressure, or changes in urine. If infection reaches the kidneys, fever, chills, vomiting, or pain in the back or side may occur.
Body System
Kidneys & Urinary Tract
When to Seek Medical Attention
A urinary tract infection should be assessed when symptoms are significant or persistent. Seek prompt care for fever, chills, flank or back pain, vomiting, blood in the urine, worsening symptoms, or symptoms during pregnancy. Emergency assessment is needed for severe illness, confusion, fainting, or signs of a serious systemic infection.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
A urinary tract infection is an infection affecting part of the urinary system, including the urethra, bladder, ureters, or kidneys. Most UTIs involve the bladder and may cause burning or pain during urination, frequent or urgent urination, lower abdominal pressure, or changes in urine. If infection reaches the kidneys, fever, chills, vomiting, or pain in the back or side may occur.
Symptoms 3
Fever
Frequent Urination
Urgent Urination
Causes 1
Most urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and multiply in the urinary tract. Infection commonly begins in the bladder but can spread to the kidneys. The shorter urethra and its location near the anus make UTIs more common in women. Bacteria may also enter the urinary tract in association with sexual activity, urinary catheters, or conditions that interfere with normal urine flow or bladder emptying.
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk factors include being female, sexual activity, menopause, diabetes, pregnancy, older age, urinary catheter use, incomplete bladder emptying, kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, urinary tract obstruction, and certain structural abnormalities. Previous UTIs can also increase the likelihood of recurrence. People with conditions affecting bladder control or mobility may have additional risk.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, medical history, and examination together with urine testing. Urinalysis can look for findings that suggest infection, while a urine culture can identify the bacteria and help guide antibiotic treatment. Additional testing or imaging may be considered when infections are recurrent, complicated, associated with obstruction, or suspected to have spread to the kidneys.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Some UTIs may be prevented by maintaining good hydration, avoiding unnecessary urinary catheter use, and addressing conditions that interfere with complete bladder emptying
After menopause, vaginal estrogen may reduce recurrent UTIs in some women when prescribed by a healthcare professional
People with recurrent infections should be evaluated for underlying causes rather than repeatedly treating symptoms without assessment
Prevention Guidance
Some UTIs may be prevented by maintaining good hydration, avoiding unnecessary urinary catheter use, and addressing conditions that interfere with complete bladder emptying. After menopause, vaginal estrogen may reduce recurrent UTIs in some women when prescribed by a healthcare professional. People with recurrent infections should be evaluated for underlying causes rather than repeatedly treating symptoms without assessment.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Water
Helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract.
Cranberry Juice
May support urinary health.
Fresh Fruits
Support immunity.
Vegetables
Provide vitamins and minerals.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May irritate the bladder.
Excess Caffeine
May worsen urinary symptoms.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is an infection affecting the urinary system.
Burning urination, frequent urination, and pelvic discomfort are common.
Bacteria entering the urinary tract are the most common cause.
Urine examination and culture are commonly used.
Good hygiene and adequate hydration may help prevent it.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.