What Is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
A UTI is an infection caused by microbial pathogens, primarily bacteria, in any part of the urinary system. Most UTIs are caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), which typically inhabits the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms can range from dysuria (painful urination), urgency, and frequency to fever and flank pain if the kidneys are involved.
Types of UTIs
- Cystitis: Infection of the bladder.
- Urethritis: Infection of the urethra.
- Pyelonephritis: Infection of the kidneys, which can lead to more severe symptoms and complications.
Symptoms
- Lower UTI: Pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, urgency, blood in urine, and suprapubic pain.
- Upper UTI: Fever, chills, flank pain, nausea, and vomiting, in addition to lower-UTI symptoms.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Urinalysis and urine culture are commonly used to identify bacteria and white blood cells in urine. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, with medication based on the causative organism and severity of infection.
Complications
If untreated, UTIs can lead to recurrent infections, kidney damage, and, in severe cases, sepsis.