Urinary tract infection (UTI)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common bacterial infection affecting the bladder or urinary tract.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of a urinary tract infection include:
Burning or pain when passing urine
Needing to urinate more often than usual
A sudden or urgent need to urinate
Passing only small amounts of urine
Cloudy, strong-smelling or bloody urine
Lower abdominal discomfort or pressure
If the infection spreads to the kidneys, you may also develop fever, chills, pain in your back or side, nausea or vomiting.
Causes
UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply inside the bladder. The most common cause is Escherichia coli (E. coli), a bacterium normally found in the bowel.
Several factors can increase the risk of developing a UTI, including:
Sexual activity
Pregnancy
Menopause
Diabetes
Dehydration
Kidney stones
Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
Diagnosis
A diagnosis can often be made based on your symptoms alone. In some cases, your doctor may recommend a urine test, particularly if your symptoms are unusual, recurrent or do not improve with treatment.
During your consultation, your doctor will also consider whether another condition—such as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), vaginal infection or kidney stone—could be causing your symptoms.
Treatment
Most uncomplicated UTIs are treated with antibiotics. If appropriate, your doctor can prescribe treatment following an online consultation.
To help relieve symptoms, it is also recommended to:
Drink plenty of fluids
Empty your bladder regularly
Take simple pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (if suitable for you)
Most people begin to feel better within 24 to 48 hours of starting antibiotics.
When should I seek urgent medical care?
You should seek urgent medical attention if you have:
Fever with chills or shaking
Pain in your back or side
Persistent vomiting
Confusion or extreme drowsiness
Symptoms during pregnancy accompanied by fever or severe pain
Difficulty passing urine
These symptoms may suggest a kidney infection or another condition that requires urgent assessment.
Related Symptoms
Related Conditions
Kidney infection (Pyelonephritis)
Kidney stones
Bacterial vaginosis
Vaginal thrush
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get antibiotics online?
Yes. If your symptoms are consistent with an uncomplicated UTI, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics following an assessment.
How long does a UTI last?
Most people notice an improvement within one to two days of starting antibiotics, although it is important to complete the full course of treatment.
Can a UTI go away without antibiotics?
Some mild infections may resolve on their own, but antibiotics are often recommended to reduce symptoms and prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys.
Can men get UTIs?
Yes. Although UTIs are less common in men, they can occur and may require further investigation, particularly if symptoms are recurrent.
Can I prevent future UTIs?
Drinking enough water, not delaying urination, emptying your bladder after sexual intercourse and maintaining good personal hygiene may help reduce the risk of future infections.
Need medical advice?
If you think you may have a urinary tract infection, an online consultation can help determine the cause of your symptoms and whether treatment is appropriate.
Book an appointment with an English-speaking doctor today.