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Contents
  • What is a UTI?
  • Common Symptoms
  • Who is at Risk?

Could Your Frequent Urge to Pee Be a Sign of a UTI?

Could Your Frequent Urge to Pee Be a Sign of a UTI?

What's This About?

Understanding urinary tract infections (UTIs) is crucial since they are common and can affect anyone. We break down what you need to know about UTIs, including symptoms, causes, and when to see a doctor.
Contents
  • What is a UTI?
  • Common Symptoms
  • Who is at Risk?

What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system, which includes your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract, the bladder, and the urethra. UTIs are more common in women, and they can cause a range of symptoms from mild discomfort to severe pain and complications if not treated promptly.

Common Symptoms

Typical symptoms of a UTI include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation when urinating, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. Some people may also experience pelvic pain, especially in women, and in more severe cases, fever or chills may occur, indicating a more serious infection like a kidney infection.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria infect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination and burning sensation.

Who is at Risk?

While anyone can get a UTI, certain factors can increase your risk. These include being female, as women have shorter urethras, which speeds up bacterial travel to the bladder. Sexual activity, certain types of birth control, menopause, and urinary tract abnormalities are also risk factors. In men, prostate problems can increase the risk of UTIs.

FAQs

What is the most common cause of UTIs?

The most common cause of UTIs is bacteria, especially E. coli, entering the urinary tract.

Can UTIs go away on their own?

While some mild UTIs may resolve without treatment, antibiotics are often necessary to prevent complications.

Are UTIs contagious?

UTIs are not contagious but can be influenced by sexual activity or hygiene practices.

How can I prevent UTIs?

Drinking plenty of water, urinating after sexual intercourse, and maintaining good hygiene can help prevent UTIs.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the symptoms and causes of UTIs can help you seek the right treatment and prevent future infections.
Get started on protecting your urinary health by discussing your concerns with Doctronic today!
Additional References
  1. Stamm WE, Wagner KF, Amsel R, et al. Causes of the acute urethral syndrome in women. N Engl J Med 1980; 303:409.
  2. Baerheim A, Digranes A, Hunskaar S. Evaluation of urine sampling technique: bacterial contamination of samples from women students. Br J Gen Pract 1992; 42:241.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.