What is a urinary tract infection?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection anywhere in the urinary system. Most affect the bladder (cystitis); an infection that reaches the kidney (pyelonephritis) is more serious.
UTIs are more common in women. In men, a UTI usually points to an underlying cause worth checking.
Symptoms
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Needing to urinate often and urgently
- Cloudy, strong-smelling or bloody urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen
Causes and risk factors
- Bacteria from the bowel, most often E. coli
- Not emptying the bladder fully, for example with an enlarged prostate
- Kidney stones
- A urinary catheter
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy and menopause
Diagnosis
- Urine dipstick and microscopy
- A urine culture to identify the bacteria and the right antibiotic
- Ultrasound or other imaging for men, repeated infections or kidney infection
Treatment options
Treatment aims to clear the infection and stop it from coming back.
Antibiotics
Chosen according to the culture result. Finishing the whole course is important, even when you feel better.
Symptom relief
Fluids and pain relief ease symptoms while the antibiotic works.
Finding the cause
For men and for repeated infections, tests look for causes such as stones, prostate enlargement or incomplete bladder emptying.
Preventing recurrence
Practical advice and, for some patients, preventive treatment reduce repeat infections.
Preventing repeat infections
- Drink enough water through the day
- Don't hold urine for long periods
- Urinate after intercourse
- Avoid irritating soaps and douches
- Treat constipation
Frequently asked questions
This page is general information and does not replace a medical consultation.