Symptoms of UTIs can vary depending on the location and severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:
Pain or burning sensation when urinating
Frequent urination
Strong, persistent urge to urinate
Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
Blood in the urine
Lower abdominal pain or discomfort
Fatigue
Fever or chills (indicating a more severe infection)
Red flags that suggest a more serious infection and require urgent medical attention include:
Severe pain in the back or side
Nausea or vomiting
High fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C)
Confusion or disorientation
Fainting or loss of consciousness
Treatment for UTIs typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. The choice of antibiotic depends on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient's medical history and any allergies. It's important to finish the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or becoming resistant to antibiotics.
Drinking plenty of fluids to help flush out bacteria
Avoiding irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods
Applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen or back to relieve pain
Urinating frequently to help flush out bacteria
Wiping from front to back after using the toilet to prevent spreading bacteria from the anus to the urethra
If symptoms do not improve within a few days of starting antibiotics, or if they worsen despite treatment, it's important to follow up with a healthcare provider to rule out complications or a possible antibiotic-resistant infection.
