UTI (Urinary Tract Infection): Symptoms, Treatment and When to See a Doctor

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection affecting the urinary system, including the bladder, urethra and, in more serious cases, the kidneys. UTIs are particularly common in women, although men and children can also develop them.

Most uncomplicated UTIs can be treated effectively when diagnosed early. However, some symptoms can indicate a more serious infection that requires urgent medical assessment.

What is a UTI?

A UTI occurs when bacteria enter and multiply in the urinary tract. Most UTIs affect the bladder and are called cystitis.

Common types include:

Urethritis – infection or inflammation of the urethra

Cystitis – infection of the bladder

Pyelonephritis – infection of the kidneys

• If a bladder infection spreads to the kidneys, it can cause more significant illness and may require urgent treatment.

What are the symptoms of a UTI?

Common symptoms of a bladder UTI include:

Burning or stinging when passing urine

Needing to urinate more frequently

A sudden or urgent need to urinate

Passing only a small amount of urine

Lower abdominal discomfort or pressure

Cloudy or strong-smelling urine

Blood in the urine

Not everyone experiences all of these symptoms.

UTI symptoms in men

Men with urinary symptoms should generally have a medical assessment because urinary symptoms can have several causes, including prostate problems and sexually transmitted infections.

Symptoms may include burning when urinating, increased urinary frequency, difficulty passing urine or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis.

What symptoms may indicate a kidney infection?

A kidney infection can be more serious than a simple bladder infection.

Seek urgent medical assessment if you develop symptoms such as:

Fever or chills

Pain in the side or back, particularly around the kidney area

Nausea or vomiting

Feeling significantly unwell

Confusion or marked weakness

A kidney infection can become serious if untreated.

What causes UTIs?

Most UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. E. coli, a type of bacteria normally found in the bowel, is one of the most common causes.

Factors that may increase the likelihood of developing a UTI include:

Female anatomy

Previous UTIs

Sexual activity

Pregnancy

Menopause

Difficulty completely emptying the bladder

Urinary tract abnormalities

Kidney or bladder stones

Use of urinary catheters

Some medical conditions

How is a UTI diagnosed?

A doctor will usually assess your symptoms and medical history. Depending on your circumstances, a urine test may also be recommended.

A urine culture can identify the bacteria causing the infection and help determine which antibiotics are likely to be effective.

Testing is particularly important in some situations, including recurrent infections, pregnancy, suspected kidney infection, complicated UTIs and UTIs in men.

How are UTIs treated?

Bacterial UTIs are commonly treated with antibiotics when antibiotic treatment is appropriate.

The choice of antibiotic depends on factors such as:

Your symptoms

Where the infection is likely to be located

Previous urine culture results

Antibiotic resistance patterns

Allergies

Pregnancy status

Other medical conditions

Current medications

It is important to take antibiotics exactly as prescribed and to complete the recommended course unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Antibiotics are not appropriate for every cause of urinary symptoms, so it is important to have an appropriate medical assessment rather than using leftover antibiotics.

Can a UTI go away without antibiotics?

Some mild urinary symptoms may improve without antibiotic treatment in certain circumstances, but this does not mean that every UTI should be left untreated.

The appropriate approach depends on the individual's symptoms, age, sex, pregnancy status, medical history and risk of complications.

If symptoms are severe, persistent or getting worse, medical assessment is important.

How can you help prevent UTIs?

Some measures may help reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs:

Drink enough fluids to stay well hydrated

Avoid regularly holding urine for long periods

Empty your bladder when you need to urinate

Urinate after sexual intercourse if this is helpful for you

Maintain good genital hygiene

Avoid unnecessary use of urinary catheters

• Discuss recurrent UTIs with your doctor

• For people who experience frequent UTIs, a doctor may recommend additional preventive strategies depending on the cause and individual circumstances.
• UTI during pregnancy
• UTIs during pregnancy should be assessed and treated appropriately because untreated urinary infections can increase the risk of complications.
• If you are pregnant and think you may have a UTI, contact your doctor or maternity care provider for assessment rather than self-treating with leftover medication.
• UTI in children
• Urinary symptoms in children should be assessed by a healthcare professional. Younger children may not be able to clearly describe symptoms and may instead present with fever, irritability, vomiting, changes in urination or other nonspecific symptoms.
• A urine sample may be required to confirm the diagnosis.
• When should you see a doctor?
• You should seek medical advice if you have symptoms suggestive of a UTI, particularly if:

Symptoms are severe or persistent

You are pregnant

You are male

You have recurrent UTIs

You have significant medical conditions

You have a urinary catheter

You develop fever or chills

You have back or side pain

You are vomiting or unable to keep fluids down

You feel very unwell

• Seek urgent medical attention if you have severe illness, confusion, significant weakness, severe pain, persistent vomiting or other symptoms suggesting a serious infection.
• Can I get a UTI consultation online?
• Some uncomplicated UTI presentations can be assessed through telehealth. A doctor can discuss your symptoms, medical history and risk factors and determine whether treatment or further testing is appropriate.
• However, telehealth is not suitable for every UTI. If you have symptoms suggesting a kidney infection or another serious condition, you may need an in-person medical assessment and urine testing.
• NewTeleDoc Medical provides telehealth consultations with Australian-registered doctors. If you have urinary symptoms, a doctor can assess whether a telehealth consultation is appropriate and advise you about the next steps.
• Important information
• This article provides general health information and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Antibiotics should only be used when prescribed by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. If you are experiencing severe symptoms or feel seriously unwell, seek urgent medical care. Book Now