The urinary tract is the system that creates and disposes of urine. This includes your bladders, kidneys, and the tubes that connect them. When germs or other unwanted material enters this system it can cause infection. Most urinary tract infections are bladder infections, which is usually not serious if treated immediately. If not treated, there is risk of bladder infection spreading to the kidneys, and kidney infections are serious and can cause permanent damage.

Symptoms

A urinary tract infection may be present if you experience any of the following symptoms or signs:

• Pain or burning during urination
• Having to urinate often with little urine coming out
• Stomach feels tender, heavy
• Cloudy or bad-smelling urine
• Pain on one side of your back (kidneys)
• Fever and chills
• Nausea, vomiting

Causes

It is easier for women to get a urinary tract infection than men, as the urethra is shorter in women than men. Some of the causes for both men and women include:

• Bladder or urethra infection
• Diabetes
• Poor hygiene
• Sexual intercourse
• Catheter
• Kidney stones
• Blocked flow of urine

Diagnosis

To diagnose a UTI, your doctor will conduct testing on a sample of your urine. This is the most commonly and sometimes only test for diagnosing urinary tract infections.

Treatment

To cure a bladder infection your doctor will prescribe antibiotics that usually remove the infection. There is no need for surgery or other treatment for a bladder or urinary tract infection.

Prognosis

Almost all urinary tract infections can be treated completely. Symptoms of bladder infection usually vanish within 24-48 hours of treatment. If you have a kidney infection, it could take up to a week or more for symptoms to alleviate.