UTI: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention Tips
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of the bladder, urethra or kidneys, usually caused by bacteria, and it commonly causes burning when you pass urine and a frequent urge to go. Most bladder infections are treated easily, but they need a proper diagnosis, and infections that reach the kidneys need urgent care.
What Is a UTI?
A UTI happens when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply. A bladder infection (cystitis) is the most common type. If bacteria travel up to the kidneys, the infection becomes more serious. UTIs can affect anyone but are more common in women, pregnant women, older adults and people with diabetes or kidney stones.
Common Symptoms
- Burning or pain when passing urine
- Frequent, urgent need to urinate
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Lower belly or pelvic discomfort
- Fever or chills
- Pain in the back or side
- Nausea or vomiting
- Feeling very unwell
How Are UTIs Treated?
A doctor may ask for a urine test and, if a bacterial infection is confirmed, prescribe an antibiotic. Take the whole course exactly as directed, even when you feel better, and do not use leftover antibiotics from earlier illnesses. Drinking fluids and using a hot water bottle on the lower belly can ease discomfort, but they do not replace treatment. Learn more in cold vs flu: do you need antibiotics and how long amoxicillin takes to work.
How to Help Prevent UTIs
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor for any suspected UTI, and do not delay if you are pregnant, are a man, are caring for a child with symptoms, have diabetes, or have UTIs that keep coming back. Blood in the urine also needs to be checked.
- You have fever, chills or severe back or side pain
- You are vomiting and cannot keep fluids down
- You feel confused or very weak
Looking for antibiotics?
Antibiotics should only be used when prescribed by a doctor. Browse our anti-biotic category.
Anti-biotic categoryFrequently Asked Questions
Can a UTI go away on its own?
Mild cases sometimes improve, but many need antibiotics, and untreated infections can spread to the kidneys. It is safest to get tested.
Does cranberry juice cure a UTI?
No. Cranberry may help some people reduce repeat infections, but it does not cure an active infection.
Is a UTI a sexually transmitted infection?
No, but sexual activity can make UTIs more likely, so urinating afterwards may help.
More Reading
Sources: NHS guidance on urinary tract infections; U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on UTIs; Mayo Clinic patient information on urinary tract infection.