Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most UTIs affect the lower part of the tract—the bladder and urethra.

Women are more likely than men to develop UTIs. When the bladder is infected, it can cause discomfort and irritation. However, if the infection reaches the kidneys, it can become much more serious.

UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics, but there are also preventive measures you can take to reduce the risk of getting a UTI or having one return after treatment.

Symptoms

A UTI causes inflammation in the lining of your urinary tract. The inflammation may cause the following problems:

Blood in your pee (hematuria).
Pain in your flank, abdomen, pelvic area or lower back.
Pressure in the lower part of your pelvis.
Cloudy, foul-smelling pee.
Urinary incontinence.
Frequent urination.
Urge incontinence.
Pain when you pee (dysuria).