Urinary tract infections, also called UTIs, are a relatively regular occurrence. More than half of all women will experience one during their life. They can be a harrowing experience, but not everyone gets the same symptoms. The urethra, kidneys, ureter, and bladder are all places that the infection can set in. Knowing the signs of a UTI can help you get treatment quickly. This step can lead to a rapid recovery and low levels of discomfort.
Understanding The Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Urinary tract infections can be the result of any number of factors. While not explicitly due to dehydration, it can be a contributing factor. Exposure to environmental pathogens can also be a factor. Having intercourse with a new partner or failing to practice good hygiene are also potential sources. While some urinary tract infections have mild symptoms, others are hard to miss. This point is especially true when discomfort exists in the urinary tract or when you urinate. Consider these symptoms of a possible UTI:
- Frequent Urination – Those with a urinary tract infection often feel the need to urinate more often. This sensation can happen even when the bladder is barely full. It occurs as the result of inflammation of the urethra and bladder. This inflammation impacts the receptors that tell us we need to pee.
- Burning Or Pain – This sensation is caused by the urinary tract lining being irritated by bacteria. This irritation results in inflammation, which causes a painful sensation.
- Cloudy Urine – White blood cells in your urine cause it to become cloudy as it fights the infection.
- Foul Odor – The infection can also be responsible for a change in the smell of your urine. It can become intensely fishy or foul-smelling.
- Tinted Urine – Urine that is pink, red, or cola-colored indicates the presence of blood. This discoloration can be the result of a UTI.
- Pelvic Pressure – When located in the pelvic center, this can indicate swelling from a UTI. Patients often report this feeling as similar to bloating.
A UTI can appear without any symptoms. When this occurs, it’s known as asymptomatic (without symptoms) bacteriuria, or ASB. This condition is simply a UTI that doesn’t display any of the usual symptoms. It’s not well understood why some patients don’t experience symptoms. Over 15% of all women over 65 experience ASB, increasing to 20% in women over 80.
Involve Your Women’s Health Specialist In Your UTI Care
It’s important that those experiencing a urinary tract infection schedule an appointment with their specialist. While relatively common, this condition can become painful and dangerous over time. It can lead to damage to the kidneys and other portions of the urinary tract. Schedule a visit with your specialist to get tips for care and prevention. They’ll help identify if you have a UTI and then help identify how to prevent them in the future. Symptoms that indicate a UTI can also be indicators of other urinary tract concerns. Getting care ensures that the UTI is controlled and no other problems are present.
