5 Signs You May Have a Urinary Tract Infection

Knowledge
September 8, 2021
2 min read
5 Signs You May Have a Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are infections that show up in any part of your urinary system including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and/or urethra.  UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urethra and infect the urinary tract. Most of the time, this bacteria comes from the skin or the rectum. Women are more likely to develop a UTI than men.

There are multiple types of UTIs, such as cystitis that affects the bladder and pyelonephritis which is found in the kidneys. The most common UTI is cystitis. Certain signs mean you probably have developed a UTI. So, what are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection? 

It is painful to urinate

This is a telltale sign that there is a problem with your bladder. It should never hurt to pee, so if you experience any stinging or burning pain while urinating, you may have a UTI.

Another type of urinary tract infection called urethritis directly affects the urethra. The urethra is the tube connected to the bladder that removes urine from the body. Discomfort while urinating usually means that you have an infection in your urethra or bladder. 

You have to urinate frequently

Having to urinate all the time or feeling like you have to urinate often and then not being able to can mean that you have contracted a UTI. Similarly, if you have to urinate immediately after urinating it is usually a sign that you have a UTI.

Your urine has an unusual color and/or smell

There should be a consistent clear to yellow color of your urine. If you notice that your urine has taken on shades of brown, red, or any other concerning hue, then you may have a UTI. Some people diagnosed with UTIs have found blood in their urine as well. 

Urine should never be excessively bubbly or foamy, so these urine consistencies can be symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Consistently cloudy urine is another red flag that may indicate a UTI or another type of kidney disease. 

You have a fever

If you have developed a fever or have constant chills, then there is a fair chance that you have a UTI. This fever usually is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, back, and groin. UTIs generally have reached the kidneys by the time you have developed a fever. 

Kidney infections are serious and can be tricky to treat if not detected quickly. If your fever reaches 101 degrees Fahrenheit and you are experiencing pain in the lower parts of your body, contact a doctor immediately. 

You are experiencing general UTI symptoms after sex

If you notice any of the signs listed above after you have engaged in sexual intercourse, you probably have a UTI. The odds are also increased if you are a woman, as the urethra is closer to the anus in women. It is very easy for bacteria to enter the urethra during sex because of the abundance of thrusting movements and skin-to-skin contact. 

UTIs often clear up on their own or with the help of antibiotics. BASS Medical Group does its part to keep you and your family healthy. Our team of doctors is experienced in diagnosing and treating UTIs. If you are seeking more information about our services, visit our website or call the Walnut Creek office at (925) 350-4044 for answers to all your medical questions.