Urinary Tract Infection Detection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when the body’s defense system fails to keep bacteria from the urinary tract. These renegade bacteria can start to multiply and cause an infection. A urinary tract infection may be limited to your bladder, or severe infections might involve your kidneys too. Urinary tract infection pain usually occurs in the lower abdomen, but if the infection is severe and has involved your kidneys, you may feel pain in your upper back or side (flank).

Some common signs of a urinary tract infection, in addition to abdominal pain, include:

• The urge to urinate frequently
• Painful urination
• Feelings of discomfort and pressure in the pelvis and lower abdomen
• Low-grade fever

Severe urinary tract infections also may cause chills and a high fever, as well as nausea and vomiting.

Some factors that can increase your risk for urinary tract infections include:

• Being a sexually active female
• Having a history of kidney stones
• Being postmenopausal (menopause makes women more susceptible to UTIs)

If you suspect a urinary tract infection, get professional help. Check out our free clinician finder to locate a clinician near you.