Urinary Tract Infections
Learn the symptoms, causes, and treatments for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and get expert, compassionate care from the urology specialists at Reid Health.
Understanding urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Urinary tract infections are one of the most common bacterial infections, affecting millions of people each year. They occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, which includes the bladder, urethra, ureters, and kidneys, and cause irritation or inflammation.
While anyone can get a UTI, they’re more common in women, but men, children, and older adults can also be affected. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
What causes a UTI?
Most urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria that enter the urinary system through the urethra. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Not emptying the bladder completely
- Dehydration or low fluid intake
- Sexual activity
- Certain birth control methods (such as diaphragms or spermicides)
- Hormonal changes during menopause
- Enlarged prostate or kidney stones (in men)
- Weakened immune system
Common symptoms of a UTI
UTIs can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. You might experience:
- A burning sensation when urinating
- Needing to urinate more often than usual
- Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
- Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen or back
- Fatigue or general discomfort
- Blood in the urine (in more advanced infections)
- Fever or chills, which could indicate the infection has reached the kidneysit amet]
Treatment options
UTIs are typically treated with:
- Antibiotics: Prescribed to eliminate infection-causing bacteria
- Increased fluid intake: To help flush bacteria from the system
- Pain relief: Such as over-the-counter medications or heating pads
- Lifestyle and hygiene recommendations: Like urinating after sexual activity and avoiding irritants such as scented soaps or sprays
For recurring UTIs, your provider might recommend specialized testing to identify underlying causes.
Why it’s important to get care
Left untreated, a urinary tract infection can spread to the kidneys, leading to serious health complications. Seeking prompt care ensures faster relief, prevents recurrent infections, and protects long-term urinary health.
At Reid Health Urology & Uro/GYN, our experts provide personalized care to diagnose, treat, and prevent UTIs with compassion and clinical expertise.