A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria infects the urinary tract. In the worst cases, the infection can spread to the kidneys, requiring hospitalization for treatment.
Risk Factors. Females are at a higher risk of getting a UTI due to our anatomy. Other potential risk factors include a previous UTI, being sexually active, pregnancy, increased age, decreased mobility, urinary incontinence, and a history of kidney stones.
Symptoms. Pain/burning while urinating, frequent urination, low fever (<101 degrees), cloudy/bloody urine, and cramping are common symptoms of a UTI. Kidney infections may causes more serious symptoms such as low back pain, high fever, nausea/vomiting, mental status changes, chills, and night sweats.
When to Seek Medical Care. You should seek medical care if you experience any of the symptoms listed above.
Treatment. As UTIs are usually caused by bacteria, antibiotics are usually needed. If you are prescribed an antibiotic, you should take it as directed and be sure to finish the full course of therapy even if you start to feel better. Also be sure to stay well-hydrated and urinate frequently to help flush the bacteria out of your system. Avoid douching, and using sprays, deodorants, powders, etc in the vagina as these may actually worsen your infection.
