Overview
A urinary tract infection is an infection anywhere in the urinary system — usually the bladder. Women get UTIs more often than men. Infections that reach the kidneys need prompt treatment.
Symptoms
- Burning while passing urine
- Passing urine often, in small amounts
- A strong, constant urge
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Fever, back pain and vomiting if the kidneys are involved
When to see a doctor
Seek care promptly if you have:
- Fever with chills
- Pain in the back or side
- Vomiting
- UTI during pregnancy
- UTI in a man or a child
- Infections that keep coming back
Causes
- Bacteria entering the urinary tract — most often E. coli from the bowel
Risk factors
- Female anatomy
- Sexual activity
- Menopause
- A urinary catheter
- Kidney stones
- An enlarged prostate
- Diabetes
- Holding urine for long periods
Diagnosis
- Urine routine examination
- Urine culture to identify the bacteria and the right antibiotic
- Ultrasound and other tests for repeated infections
Treatment
- Antibiotics chosen for the infection — ideally guided by a urine culture.
- Plenty of fluids.
- Treating the underlying cause, such as a stone or poor bladder emptying, when infections recur.
At MJ Shah Hospital: Leaking urine or repeated infections are common, not something to put up with. Most women improve with exercises, medicines or a short procedure. Women's Urology →
Prevention
- Drink enough water
- Do not delay passing urine
- Pass urine after intercourse
- Avoid harsh soaps and douches
FAQs
Can I use leftover antibiotics?
Please do not. The wrong antibiotic or an incomplete course can make bacteria resistant. A urine culture shows which medicine will work.
Why do I keep getting UTIs?
Recurrent infections often have a cause — a stone, incomplete emptying, hormonal changes or anatomy. A urologist can find and treat it.
Is a UTI in men serious?
UTIs are less common in men and usually point to an underlying problem such as an enlarged prostate, so they should be evaluated.
Medical review: pending — Dr. Abhishek M. Shah · Content prepared October 2026. This guide is general information and does not replace a consultation.