Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common and can affect people at any age. You may notice a frequent urge to urinate, a burning sensation, cloudy or strong-smelling urine or pressure in your lower abdomen.
While these symptoms can feel uncomfortable and disruptive, UTIs are very treatable. With the right care, most people feel better quickly and can get back to their normal routine with confidence.
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What is a urinary tract infection?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system and cause an infection. This can affect different parts of the urinary tract, including the bladder, urethra or kidneys.
Common types of UTIs include:
- Bladder infections (cystitis), the most common type, often causing burning, urgency and frequent urination
- Kidney infections (pyelonephritis), a more serious infection that may include fever, nausea or pain in the upper back or side
- Urethral infections (urethritis), which can cause pain or discomfort during urination
If UTIs happen often or don’t fully go away, it may be a sign of an underlying issue that needs further evaluation.
UTI symptoms to watch for
UTI symptoms can vary, but often include:
- A strong, frequent urge to urinate
- Burning or pain during urination
- Cloudy, dark or strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pressure or lower abdominal discomfort
- More serious symptoms may include:
- Fever or chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain in the upper back or side
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to get care as soon as possible.
How we treat urinary tract infections
Treatment for UTIs depends on the type and severity of the infection. Our goal is to relieve your symptoms quickly and prevent the infection from coming back.
Common treatment options include:
- Antibiotics, to clear the infection
- IV antibiotics, for more severe infections such as kidney infections
If your infections are frequent or persistent, we may also evaluate for underlying causes like structural concerns to help prevent future UTIs.
What to expect during your visit
Getting care for a UTI is simple and straightforward.
Your visit might include:
- A review of your symptoms and medical history
- A urine test, to confirm infection
- Additional testing, if needed, such as imaging or cystoscopy
From there, we’ll recommend the right treatment and guide you on what to expect next—so you can start feeling better with confidence.