Urinary tract infections: Symptoms, causes and more

Does it burn when you urinate? Do you need to go often or urgently? These can be signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), known as cystitis when it affects the bladder. Most UTIs are easily treated when caught early, but an infection can sometimes spread to the kidneys.

Here’s how to recognize the symptoms, what to do if you have them and when to get advice from a healthcare professional. 

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

UTI symptoms can develop quickly. The most common include:

• A burning sensation or pain when urinating
• A frequent or urgent need to urinate, even when your bladder is nearly empty 
• Pain, pressure or discomfort in your lower abdomen
• Cloudy or sometimes strong-smelling urine
• Blood in your urine

Keep in mind: Needing to urinate often doesn’t necessarily mean you have a UTI. Other conditions can cause similar symptoms. A healthcare professional can help determine what’s causing them.

What’s the difference between a bladder infection and a kidney infection?

A urinary tract infection in your bladder is called cystitis. Sometimes, the infection spreads to the kidneys, causing a more serious condition known as pyelonephritis.

Consultez rapidement si vous avez une infection urinaire accompagnée de : 

• Fever or chills
• Pain in your back or side
• Nausea or vomiting
• Significant weakness 

These symptoms may indicate a kidney infection and need to be assessed by a healthcare professional.

What causes a urinary tract infection?

A UTI usually develops when bacteria around the urethra travel up into your bladder and multiply.

UTIs are especially common in women, partly because of their anatomy. A shorter urethra makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.

Other factors can also increase the risk of a UTI: 

• Frequent sexual activity or a new sexual partner
• Spermicide use, particularly with a diaphragm
• Pregnancy
• Menopause
• A previous UTI
• Diabetes
• Conditions that prevent the bladder from emptying completely, such as an enlarged prostate in men 
• A weakened immune system

What you should do if you think you have a urinary tract infection

If you think you have a UTI, speak with a pharmacist or another healthcare professional. Depending on your symptoms and circumstances, you may need an assessment to confirm the infection and determine the right treatment. UTIs in men are often more complicated and should be assessed by a doctor.

If a bacterial infection requires treatment, antibiotics may be prescribed. The choice of antibiotic and the length of treatment depend on several factors, including your circumstances, medication history and which antibiotics the bacteria are susceptible to.

If you’re prescribed an antibiotic, take it as directed and complete the full course of treatment as your healthcare professional instructs, even if your symptoms have cleared up.

Symptoms usually start to improve soon after you begin taking antibiotics. You may still need medication to help relieve the pain. Ask your pharmacist which option is right for you. 

How can you help relieve urinary tract infection symptoms?

While you wait to speak with a healthcare professional, a few measures may help ease the discomfort:

• Drink enough water to stay well hydrated
• Avoid holding your urine for long periods when you need to go
• Try placing a heating pad on your lower abdomen. This may help relieve discomfort for some people
• Avoid products that can irritate the genital area, such as certain soaps or scented products 

Important: Drinking water helps you stay hydrated, but it does not replace treatment when treatment is needed. 

How can you prevent urinary tract infections?

Some habits may help reduce your risk of a UTI:

Drink enough fluids

Staying hydrated helps you urinate regularly. However, avoid drinking excessive amounts in an attempt to “flush out” an infection.

Don’t hold in your urine

Don’t wait. Go to the bathroom when you feel the need.

Urinate after sex

This is often recommended to help flush bacteria out of the urethra, although there is limited evidence that it prevents UTIs.

Wipe from front to back

Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom may help prevent bacteria from spreading to the urethra.

If you use a spermicide

Spermicides can increase the risk of a UTI, especially when used with a diaphragm. If you have recurring infections, talk to a healthcare professional about other birth control options.

What about cranberry products?

Cranberry juice and supplements are sometimes used to help prevent recurring UTIs, but the evidence for their effectiveness is mixed. They should not replace treatment for an existing infection.

For postmenopausal women with recurring UTIs, vaginal estrogen may also be an option in certain cases. A healthcare professional can determine whether it’s appropriate for you.

When you should talk to a healthcare professional for a urinary tract infection

Get medical care as soon as you can if you have: 

• Fever or chills
• Pain in your back or side
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blood in your urine
• Symptoms that get worse or don’t improve

A professional assessment is also important if you’re pregnant, have kidney disease, diabetes or a weakened immune system, or are 65 or older.

Think you might have a urinary tract infection?

Your pharmacist can help you decide what to do based on your symptoms and circumstances. They can explain the available options and refer you to another healthcare professional, if needed.