A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is a miserable experience. UTIs are very common and around 80% of women will experience a UTI at least once in their life. Women are more susceptible to UTIs because they have a short urethra and it’s fairly easy for bacteria to travel the short distance into the bladder, but men are not immune to UTIs. So, what are the symptoms of a UTI and when should you call the doctor?
Painful Urination
The most obvious sign you have a UTI is when it hurts to pee. Does it feel like are peeing broken glass splinters when you visit the restroom? UTIs can be immensely painful. You will probably find you barely pass any urine and the short respite you enjoy after peeing is short-lived.
Increased Urination
eeding to urinate more often than is normal for you is usually the first warning that something is not quite right. As the infection worsens, you may find you are visiting the toilet every few minutes, even though your bladder is empty.
Blood in Your Urine
Blood in your pee is a sign you have an infection. It can be rather alarming to pass blood in your urine but try not to be too concerned. Once the infection clears up, so will the blood. However, always have blood in your pee checked out. Firstly, you will probably need medication to clear the infection, and secondly, blood in urine can be a sign of other, more serious, conditions.
Cloudy, Smelly Urine
Urine looks cloudy when you have a UTI. Normal urine is pale and straw-colored. Infected urine is dark and smells unpleasant because it’s full of bacteria.
Pelvic Pain
A UTI is painful, so you may experience pain in your lower abdomen. Pain caused by a UTI can also indicate a kidney infection, so if you are in a lot of discomfort, speak to your doctor.
Feeling Unwell
Expect to feel unwell when you have a UTI. Your body is fighting an infection, so it’s working overtime and you will not be in good health. Get plenty of rest and take some over-the-counter painkillers if necessary.
In many cases, a UTI will clear up without medical intervention in a few days, but if you are passing blood or you are a man, old, or a child is showing signs of a UTI, consult a doctor immediately. You should also seek medical help if your symptoms don’t clear up in 3-4 days or they return.
Make an appointment with the best urologist in NYC if you are suffering with UTI problems. We can help!