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Thanks for visiting! GoodRx is not available outside of the United States. If you are trying to access this site from the United States and believe you have received this message in error, please reach out to and let us know. Do you have pain or burning when you urinate? You might have a urinary tract infection (UTI). Antibiotics treat UTIs. Your healthcare professional can determine if you have a UTI and what antibiotic you need. What is a urinary tract infection (UTI)?UTIs are common infections that happen when bacteria, often from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra, and infect the urinary tract. The infections can affect several parts of the urinary tract, but the most common type is a bladder infection (cystitis). Kidney infection (pyelonephritis) is another type of UTI. They’re less common, but more serious than bladder infections. Risk FactorsSome people are at higher risk of getting a UTI. UTIs are more common in females because their urethras are shorter and closer to the rectum. This makes it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract. Other factors that can increase the risk of UTIs:
SymptomsSymptoms of a bladder infection can include:
Symptoms of a kidney infection can include:
Younger children may not be able to tell you about UTI symptoms they are having. While fever is the most common sign of UTI in infants and toddlers, most children with fever do not have a UTI. If you have concerns that your child may have a UTI, talk to a healthcare professional. A female urinary tract, including the bladder and urethra. This image shows how bacteria from the skin or rectum can travel up the urethra and cause a bladder infection. baby icon Talk to a healthcare professional right away if your child is younger than 3 months old and has a fever of 100.4 °F (38 °C) or higher. When to Seek Medical CareTalk to your healthcare professional if you have symptoms of a UTI or for any symptom that is severe or concerning. Taking antibiotics, prescribed by a healthcare professional, at home can treat most UTIs. However, some cases may require treatment in a hospital. TreatmentYour healthcare professional will determine if you have a UTI by:
Bacteria cause UTIs and antibiotics treat them. However, any time you take antibiotics, they can cause side effects. Side effects can include rash, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, and yeast infections. More serious side effects can include antibiotic-resistant infections or C. diff infection, which causes diarrhea that can lead to severe colon damage and death. Call your healthcare professional if you develop any side effects while taking your antibiotic. Sometimes other illnesses, such as sexually transmitted diseases, have symptoms similar to UTIs. Your healthcare professional can determine if a UTI or different illness is causing your symptoms and determine the best treatment. How to Feel BetterIf your healthcare professional prescribes you antibiotics:
Drink plenty of water or other fluids. Your healthcare professional might also recommend medicine to help lessen the pain or discomfort. Talk with your healthcare professional if you have any questions about your antibiotics. PreventionYou can help prevent UTIs by doing the following:
What is the main cause of UTI in females?UTIs in Women
Bacteria are the most common cause of UTIs, although fungi rarely can also infect the urinary tract. E. coli bacteria, which live in the bowel, cause most UTIs.
What triggers a urinary tract infection?UTIs are common infections that happen when bacteria, often from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra, and infect the urinary tract. The infections can affect several parts of the urinary tract, but the most common type is a bladder infection (cystitis).
What are 3 symptoms of a UTI?Symptoms of UTIs. A burning feeling when you pee.. A frequent or intense urge to pee, even though little comes out when you do.. Cloudy, dark, bloody, or strange-smelling pee.. Feeling tired or shaky.. Fever or chills (a sign that the infection may have reached your kidneys). Pain or pressure in your back or lower abdomen.. |