Urinary Tract Infection 

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) 

A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection affecting any part of the urinary system, including the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. UTIs are most commonly caused by bacteria and can lead to burning during urination, frequent urge to pass urine, lower abdominal pain, and fever. UTIs are more common in women but can affect men and children.

Urinary Tract Infection 

What is a UTI?

UTI occurs when bacteria (most commonly E. coli) enter the urinary tract and multiply, causing infection and inflammation. Depending on the site involved:

  • Urethritis – infection of urethra

  • Cystitis – infection of bladder

  • Pyelonephritis – infection of kidneys (more serious)

Causes

  • Bacterial infection (E. coli most common)

  • Poor genital hygiene

  • Inadequate fluid intake

  • Holding urine for long periods

  • Sexual activity

  • Use of urinary catheters

  • Kidney stones or prostate enlargement

  • Diabetes

  • Pregnancy

Common Symptoms

  • Burning or pain during urination

  • Frequent urge to urinate

  • Urgency to urinate

  • Passing small amounts of urine

  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

  • Blood in urine

  • Lower abdominal or back pain

  • Fever and chills (suggest kidney involvement)

  • In children: irritability, fever, poor feeding

Risk Factors

  • Female gender (shorter urethra)

  • Sexual activity

  • Pregnancy

  • Menopause

  • Diabetes

  • Dehydration

  • Use of catheters

  • Previous history of UTIs