Understand UTI.
Take care early.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) can cause discomfort and frequent urges to urinate. Learn about common symptoms, how UTIs are diagnosed, and when to seek professional care.
Reliable information to help guide your next step.
Care that starts with understanding
Know the symptoms
Protect kidney health
Common symptoms of a UTI
Symptoms can vary from person to person. If you notice one or more of these signs, speak with a healthcare professional for assessment.
Burning while urinating
A stinging, painful or burning sensation when passing urine.
Frequent or urgent urination
Needing to urinate often or suddenly, sometimes passing only a small amount.
Changes in urine
Urine may appear cloudy, have a stronger smell, or contain blood.
Lower abdominal discomfort
Pressure, tenderness or discomfort around the lower abdomen or pelvis.
Back or side pain
Pain in the side or back may be a sign that the infection involves the kidneys.
Fever or chills
Fever, chills, nausea or vomiting can indicate a more serious infection.
Seek urgent medical attentionif urinary symptoms occur with fever, chills, pain in your back or side, or vomiting. If you are pregnant, have diabetes, kidney disease, or a weakened immune system, contact a clinician promptly.
Timely assessment matters
What is a urinary tract infection?
A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter and multiply in part of the urinary system. A UTI may affect the urethra, bladder, or kidneys. Bladder infections are common, while kidney infections can be more serious and need prompt assessment.
UTIs can affect people of any age or sex, although some people have a higher risk. Repeated infections may need further evaluation to identify contributing factors.
How is a UTI diagnosed?
Your clinician may recommend tests based on your symptoms, medical history, and whether the infection is recurrent or complicated.
Clinical assessment
Your symptoms, previous infections, medicines and relevant health conditions are reviewed.
Urine tests
A urine routine test and, when appropriate, urine culture can help identify infection and guide treatment.
Further evaluation
For selected cases, imaging or specialist assessment may be recommended to look for stones, blockage or other causes.
Ways to help reduce UTI risk
These habits may help support urinary health, though they cannot prevent every infection.
Support healthy habits
Frequently asked questions
General information about urinary tract infections.
Common signs include burning during urination, frequent or urgent urination, lower abdominal discomfort and cloudy or bloody urine. Fever, chills or side/back pain may indicate a more serious infection.