Urinary Tract Infection Conditions & Symptoms

A urinary tract infection (UTI) begins in the urinary system, which consists of the urethra, uteters, bladder and kidneys. Any of these areas can become infected, but UTIs usually occur in the bladder or urethra.

Common Symptoms

UTI symptoms come on quickly and include a strong urge to urinate, burning urination and passing small amounts of urine very frequently. Urine can also be cloudy, have a strong odor, and contain blood and bacteria.

Kidney

If the kidneys are infected due to a UTI, there will be pain in the upper back and side, nausea, vomiting, a high fever and possibly shaking and chills.

Bladder

If the UTI infection is in the bladder, the patient will likely have a mild fever, discomfort in the lower abdomen, pressure on the pelvis, and urination that is frequent and painful.

Urethra

If the bladder is infected due to a UTI, there will be urination accompanied by a burning sensation.

Complications

UTIs rarely lead to complications if treated properly. Untreated, UTIs can lead to kidney infections, which could permanently damage the kidneys.