Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
A urinary tract infection is an infection that begins in your urinary system. Your urinary system is composed of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Any part of your urinary system can become infected, but most infections involve the lower urinary tract, the urethra and the bladder. Women are at greater risk of developing a urinary tract infection than are men. A urinary tract infection limited to your bladder can be painful and annoying. However, serious consequences can occur if a urinary tract infection spreads to your kidneys. Symptoms of urinary tract infections include:
- Cloudy urine
- Foul or strong urine odor
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Low fever (not everyone will have a fever) / Need to urinate at night
- Pain or burning with urination
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Pressure in the lower pelvis
Antibiotics are the typical treatment for a urinary tract infection. However if the infection spreads to the kidneys further medical treatment is needed.